Definition

Noun: 1. A small, usually round hole in a material (such as cloth, leather, or metal) that is reinforced or finished around its edge. This hole is designed to allow a cord, lace, rope, or hook to pass through, often for fastening or decorative purposes. 2. A metal, plastic, or fabric ring used to line or reinforce such a small hole. This component strengthens the hole and prevents the material from tearing.

Examples of Usage

• As a hole in material:

  • She threaded the shoelace through the eyelet.
  • The sail has several eyelets along its edge for attaching ropes.
  • The pattern calls for stitching an eyelet for the ribbon to pass through.

• As a reinforcing ring:

  • The tent fabric is strengthened with brass eyelets.
  • You need a special tool to set the eyelets into the leather.
  • The curtain has decorative metal eyelets at the top.

Advanced Usage

• "Eyelet embroidery" or "broderie anglaise": A type of needlework characterized by patterns of small, round holes (eyelets) with stitched edges, often used on fabric.
  • Her dress was trimmed with delicate eyelet embroidery.

Variants and Related Words

• Grommet: Often used interchangeably with "eyelet," especially for larger, heavier-duty rings used in sails, tarps, or banners. A grommet is typically a two-piece ring, while an eyelet is often a single piece.
• Aglet: The plastic or metal sheath at the end of a shoelace, which helps it pass through eyelets.

Synonyms

• Perforation (specifically for the hole itself).
• Aperture (a more general term for an opening).
• Loop (though a loop is typically a full circle of material, not just a reinforced hole).

Related Phrases

• "To set an eyelet": The action of installing a metal or plastic eyelet into a hole in fabric or leather using a special tool.
  • After punching the hole, you set the eyelet with a hammer.

Noun

1. fastener consisting of a metal ring for lining a small hole to permit the attachment of cords or lines
2. a small hole (usually round and finished around the edges) in cloth or leather for the passage of a cord or hook or bar