Pronunciation: [mˈe͡ɪlɪt] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the word "maillet" is often mistaken as "mallet" due to its pronunciation. The IPA phonetic transcription for "maillet" is /maɪˈleɪ/, while "mallet" is /ˈmælɪt/. The extra "i" and "e" in "maillet" indicate that the second syllable should be pronounced as "lay," instead of "lit" in "mallet." "Maillet" is a French word that means "mallet" or "hammer," often used in the context of sports like croquet or hockey.
Maillet:
Noun: A maillet is a small hammer or mallet used for various purposes, typically with a wooden or rubber head and a short handle. It is designed for striking objects without causing damage. The word "maillet" originates from the French term "mallette," meaning a small mallet or hammer.
Historically, maillets were used in the sport of croquet to strike the balls through the hoops. The rubber-headed maillets replaced the wooden ones, providing better control and minimizing chances of breaking the balls. Maillets are also commonly used in woodworking and carpentry, for driving chisels and tapping joints.
In addition to its sporting and woodworking uses, the maillet finds applications in other domains. It is widely employed in upholstery work, where it is used to drive decorative nails or studs into furniture or fabric. The rubber-headed versions, known as upholstery mallets, are preferred to protect delicate materials from damage during installation. Maillets are also utilized in metalworking to set rivets or shape metal sheets.
The term "maillet" is sometimes used metaphorically to describe a gentle or persuasive approach to making a point or decision. This emphasis on the soft and controlled force of the maillet reflects its physical properties as a tool.
The word "maillet" originates from the French language. Its etymology can be traced back to the Old French word "mail", which means "mallet" or "hammer". This term ultimately derives from the Latin word "malleus", which carries the same meaning of "hammer". The word "maillet" is still used in modern French to refer to a small wooden hammer or mallet.
