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

Lovers of some hardware will be happy to know that the new, tradition-honoring Logger features nickel eyelets, which contrast impeccably with the richness of its waxed leather. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 3 Oct. 2025

Such as especially the case with sneakers, which can be cobbled together from as many as 60 wholly disparate parts, each designed to coddle, protect or perform, from leather uppers to EVA midsoles to the individual metal eyelet through which a cotton or polyester shoelace can be braced and secured. —Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 1 Oct. 2025

Taylor, who performed at the awards show, wore a sexy eyelet minidress and pixie cut, while Pierre made jaws drop in a black suit. —Michelle Lee, PEOPLE, 16 Sep. 2025

There are front racks that simply hang from the handlebars, plus there are strap-on mudguards that don't require eyelets. —New Atlas, 9 Sep. 2025

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