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
: peephole, loophole

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 eyelet hem adds romance to any outfit, while the zipper-free pull-on style makes getting ready a breeze. — Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 1 Aug. 2026 The Wuthering Heights actress stunned in a flowy butter yellow silk tank top, which featured micro yellow straps and was trimmed with ornate white eyelet lace along the neckline and hemline. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 26 July 2026 While any peasant blouse or billowy eyelet top will do the trick, there’s something so romantic and eye-catching about an asymmetrical shirt with black jorts. — Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 23 July 2026 Color-happy crochet flowers bloom on the heel counter, while seashell beads dangle from the lace eyelets. — Sophie Dunne, Footwear News, 23 July 2026 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

Rhymes for eyelet

See All Rhymes for eyelet

Browse Nearby Words

eyeless
eyelet
eyeleteer
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Eyelet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eyelet. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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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
: grommet

More from Merriam-Webster on eyelet

Nglish: Translation of eyelet for Spanish Speakers

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