I. ˈklēt, usu -ēd.+V noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English cleete, clete wedge, from (assumed) Old English clēat; akin to Middle High German klōz lump — more at clout
1.
a. : a wedge-shaped piece of wood or other material fastened to or projecting from something and serving as a support or check
b. : a wooden or metal fitting usually with two projecting horns around which a rope may be made fast (as by belaying it)
2. : a strip of wood, iron, or other material fastened across something to give strength, hold in position, or furnish a grip: as
a. : a projecting strip or cone usually of leather, rubber, or metal fastened to or built into the sole or heel of a shoe to increase traction or provide a firm grip ; also : a plate of metal on the heel or sole of a shoe for minimizing wear
b. : a similar projection on any surface demanding traction (as on a tractor tread or a machine belt)
c. : an often porcelain support with grooves or channels for electric wiring — see insulator illustration
d.
(1) : a strip usually of wood but sometimes of metal or paperboard used to align and hold several boards (as in a barrelhead or box) or to connect adjacent panels or sides of a box
(2) : batten 2b(3)
(3) : a piece of metal attached to a can or drum to secure a handle or a cover
3. : a system of joints along which coal breaks when mined ; also : a single joint of cleavage
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
1. : to secure to or by a cleat
2. : to provide or strengthen with a cleat