grommet

[ grom-it ]

noun

1. Machinery.
   1. any of various rings or eyelets of metal or the like.
   2. an insulated washer of rubber or plastic, inserted in a hole in a metal part to prevent grounding of a wire passing through the hole.
2. Nautical.
   1. a ring or strop of fiber or wire; becket.
   2. a ring having a thickness of three strands, made by forming a loop of a single strand, then laying the ends around the loop.
   3. a ring of fiber used as a seal or gasket, as under the head of a bolt.
3. a washer or packing for sealing joints between sections of pipe.
4. Military. a stiff ring of rubber or metal inside the top of a service cap, designed to keep the top of the cap stretched flat.
5. a metal-bound eyelet in cloth, sometimes used decoratively, as on a garment.

verb (used with object)

1. to fasten with a grommet.

grommet

/ ˈɡrɒmɪt /

noun

1. a ring of rubber or plastic or a metal eyelet designed to line a hole to prevent a cable or pipe passed through it from chafing
2. a ring of rope hemp used to stuff the gland of a pipe joint
3. med a small tube inserted into the eardrum in cases of glue ear in order to allow air to enter the middle ear
4. informal.
   a young or inexperienced surfer

Word History and Origins

Origin of grommet¹

First recorded in 1620–30, grommet is from the obsolete French word gromette curb of bridle < ?

Word History and Origins

Origin of grommet¹

C15: from obsolete French gourmette chain linking the ends of a bit, from gourmer bridle, of unknown origin

Example Sentences

Other consumers point out the lack of holes or grommets for wires to pass through, but a desk wire organizer is an affordable solution to this issue.

From Popular-Science

If you see melted plastic grommets, deadly gases like carbon monoxide may be entering your home.

From Popular-Science

When assembled, the chimney exits the tent through a steel grommet that protects the exterior fabric from coming into direct contact with the stove.

From Outside Online

Grommet—a rope ring used as a wad to hold a cannonball in place in the bore.

From Project Gutenberg

The grommet is formed of a single strand of rope five times as long as the circumference of the grommet when complete.

From Project Gutenberg

The blocks are fitted round the gaff with grommet straps, and are kept in their places by cleats.

From Project Gutenberg

With the grommet punch make holes through the canvas just below the broomstick and secure with the grommets.

From Project Gutenberg

A short piece of rope worked grommet fashion into the bolt-rope of a sail, and containing a metal ring or thimble.

From Project Gutenberg