Useless fact
What is the metal ring around a hole in fabric called?
The metal or plastic ring used to reinforce a hole in fabric or leather is called a grommet.
The term grommet originally comes from the maritime world, referring to a ring of rope used on sailing ships to secure sails or run rigging. Over time, as manufacturing evolved, these rope rings were replaced by durable metal or plastic rings. Today, grommets are ubiquitous in everyday life, found reinforcing the holes of shower curtains, heavy-duty tarpaulins, banners, shoes, and clothing. They serve the critical function of preventing the fabric or leather from tearing under the tension of a cord, rope, or hook passed through the hole. While similar to eyelets, grommets typically consist of two pieces—a collar and a washer—that clamp together, whereas eyelets are usually a single piece that flares outward when crimped. The word grommet is also used in electronics to describe rubber sleeves that protect wires passing through metal panels.
Why this is true — The term 'grommet' is defined in authoritative dictionaries like Merriam-Webster and Britannica as a metal or plastic ring used to reinforce holes in materials.
Sources
- ollao Real Academia Española