I. ˈgrämə̇t, ˈgrəm-, usu -ȧd.+V noun
also grum·met ˈgrəm-
( -s )
Etymology: perhaps from obsolete French gormette curb of a bridle
1. : a ring or loop of metal, rope, fabric, or other material that is passed through something (as the eyelet of a sail) to hold it in place or that fits around something (as an oar) to support or control it or that is built into something (as a machine belt) to reinforce it
2.
a. : an eyelet of metal, plastic, or other material set into a perforation (as at the edge of a mailbag) so as to strengthen and protect the inner circumference of the perforation and the immediately surrounding area
b. : a device like a ring that is designed to protect or insulate something passed through it: as
(1) : a bushing designed to protect from abrasion a cord or wire passing through a hole
(2) : a washer designed to insulate an electric wire passing through a hole
3. : a gasket or packing used to prevent leakage (as of steam) or entry (as of dust)
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
1. : to equip with grommets
mailbags that have been properly grommeted
2. : to fasten, support, or reinforce with grommets
the sail is grommeted to its stay