eyelet

noun

eye·​let ˈī-lət 

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

: peephole, loophole

Examples of eyelet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Proportions stay exaggerated across the collection like a wider toe box, oversized eyelet rows, chunky laces, and an embossed star applied across the toe cap. — Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026

At Chloé, Chemena Kamali sent eyelet lace, tailoring, and raincoat silhouettes down the runway. — Laure Guilbault, Vogue, 7 Oct. 2026

The blouse’s design also features little eyelets that let air into the top. — Jasmine Gomez, Travel + Leisure, 30 Aug. 2026

The ‘90s fashion legend shared a photo dump of her wearing a plunging white one-piece bikini that was covered in subtle eyelet embroidery. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 25 Aug. 2026

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

Rhymes for eyelet

• autopilot
• islet
• pilot
• stylet

Kids Definition

eyelet

noun

eye·​let ˈī-lət 

1

: a small hole (as in cloth or leather) for a lace or rope

2

: grommet