[cleat] n [ME clete wedge, fr. (assumed) OE cleat; akin to MHG kloz lump--more at clout] (14c) 1 a: a wedge-shaped piece fastened to or projecting from something and serving as a support or check b: a wooden or metal fitting usu. with two projecting horns around which a rope may be made fast
2. a: a strip fastened across something to give strength or hold in position b (1): a projecting piece (as on the bottom of a shoe) that furnishes a grip (2) pl: shoes equipped with cleats
[2]cleat vt (1794) 1: to secure to or by a cleat
2: to provide with a cleat