Pronunciation: WAV or RealAudio

grommet (GROM-it) also grummet (GRUM-) noun

1. A reinforced eyelet, as in cloth or leather, through which a fastener may be passed. A small metal or plastic ring used to reinforce such an eyelet.

2. Nautical. A loop of rope or metal used for securing the edge of a sail to its stay.

[Probably from obsolete French gromette, gormette, chain joining the ends of a bit, from Old French, from gourmer, to bridle.]

"`... my foot was pinched both under the laces and under the grommets,' noted John." Hostetter, Kristin, Featherweight Footwear, Backpacker, 1 Dec 1998.

This week's theme: words for everyday things and anatomical features.

X-Bonus