eyelet

noun

eye·​let ˈī-lət How to pronounce eyelet (audio)
1
a
: a small hole designed to receive a cord or used for decoration (as in embroidery)
b
: a small typically metal ring to reinforce an eyelet : grommet
2

Examples of eyelet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The 1460 boot is rounded out by an AirWair heel loop and special-edition Metallica eyelet design. Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 22 Jan. 2026 Plus, their eyelet uppers deliver an extra element of style. Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 18 Jan. 2026 The main curtains designers want to see gone in 2026 are grommet, or eyelet-style. Nishaa Sharma, The Spruce, 5 Jan. 2026 The rubber outsole delivers great traction and flexibility, and the Ghillie lacing system uses loops instead of eyelets to better enhance the overall snugness and stability of the shoe once it's tied. Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 19 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for eyelet

Word History

Etymology

alteration of Middle English oilet, from Anglo-French oillet, diminutive of oil eye, from Latin oculus

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of eyelet was in 1590

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Eyelet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eyelet. Accessed 27 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

eyelet

noun
eye·​let ˈī-lət How to pronounce eyelet (audio)
1
: a small hole (as in cloth or leather) for a lace or rope
2

More from Merriam-Webster on eyelet

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!