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grommet

Pronunciation: /ˈgrɒmɪt/

Definition of grommet

noun

1an eyelet placed in a hole to protect or insulate a rope or cable passed through it or to reinforce the hole.

2British a tube surgically implanted in the eardrum to drain fluid from the middle ear.

3 informal, chiefly Australian a young or inexperienced surfer or skateboarder.

Origin:

early 17th century (in nautical use in the sense 'a circle of rope used as a fastening'): from obsolete French grommette, from gourmer 'to curb', of unknown ultimate origin. Current senses date from the mid 20th century