In order to improve conformability of a sliding surface of a sliding
member in an early state of sliding, there is provided a sliding member
in which a plurality of holes are formed on a sliding surface, and the
diameters (or the opening area) of the holes on the sliding surface are
arranged so as to become gradually large as it gets closer to both ends
in an axial direction from the center side in the axial direction. This
feature decreases the pressurized area as it gets closer to the ends of
the sliding surface so that it wears at an early stage, whereby a
conformed surface following the deflection of a mating member is
provided.