vt to strengthen with a cleat.
2. cleat ·noun a strip of wood or iron fastened on transversely to something in order to give strength, prevent warping, hold position, ·etc.
3. cleat ·noun a device made of wood or metal, having two arms, around which turns may be taken with a line or rope so as to hold securely and yet be readily released. it is bolted by the middle to a deck or mast, ·etc., or it may be lashed to a rope.