Etymograph

English

eyelet

Eyelet comes from Middle English oylet, and goes back to Old French oillet.

  1. Old Frenchc. 842–1400oillet
  2. Middle Englishc. 1150–1500oylet
  3. Englishtodayeyelet

attested reconstructed ? uncertain or disputed

Lineage

  1. Old Frenchc. 842–1400oillet
  2. Middle Englishc. 1150–1500oylet
  3. Englishtodayeyelet

The story

Spelling and pronunciation were later on influenced by eye (which is distantly related to oil via Proto-Indo-European) as though suffixed with -let (a double diminutive also from -et).

Every English word from Old French oillet

Today it means

noun An object that consists of a rim and small hole or perforation to receive a cord or fastener, as in garments, sails, etc. An eyelet may reinforce a hole.

Language periods are conventional ranges, not dates for this word.

Etymograph / Old French oillet / eyelet

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