grommet

/ˈɡrɑmɪt/
noun
  1. A ring or eyelet, usually made of metal or plastic, used to reinforce a hole in fabric, leather, or other material.
    • The sail had a metal grommet at each corner for attaching ropes.
    • She inserted a grommet into the hole of the tarp to prevent tearing.
    • He replaced the broken grommet on his hiking boot's lace hole.
  2. A small tube inserted into the eardrum to drain fluid and treat ear infections.
    • The grommet will fall out on its own after several months.
    • The doctor recommended a grommet to help with the child's chronic ear infections.
    • After the grommet was placed, her hearing improved significantly.
Synonyms