Definition

A small piece, often made of plastic or metal, that is attached to the end of a shoelace or cord to prevent it from fraying and to make it easier to thread through holes.

Example

The aglet on my shoelace broke, making it difficult to thread through the eyelet.

Conversation

Did you know that the little plastic tip on shoelaces is called an aglet?

Really? I always just called it the tip of the lace.

Yeah, it's a funny word, right?

Totally! I'll have to remember that next time I talk about laces.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Aglet originates from Old French 'aglet' (meaning a small metal tip or end), which itself comes from the Latin 'agglutinare' (meaning to glue or fasten). The word refers to the small plastic or metal sheath at the end of a shoelace that prevents it from fraying and makes it easier to thread through eyelets.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old French word 'aglet' as a small tip that 'fastens' the end of a shoelace, helping you remember that an aglet is the little piece that keeps shoelaces from fraying.

Visually Confused Words