DictionarygrommetYoung board-sports participant
noun

grommet

A young or inexperienced participant in surfing or other board sports.

The grommet paddles out with the older surfers every morning.

Etymology

Origin uncertain. Grommet for a young surfer is established slang, but the metal-ring sense does not securely explain it.

More examples

  • A few grommets practice skateboard tricks behind the shop.
  • The youngest grommet follows her snowboard instructor down the slope.
  • The older surfers teach the grommet how to spot a good wave.

Forms

grommet · grommets

Similar words

novice
Emphasizes inexperience rather than youth or a particular sport.
rookie
Describes a newcomer in sports generally, not just board sports.