Main Entry: ¹cleat

Pronunciation: \ˈklēt\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English clete wedge, from Old English *clēat; akin to Middle High German klōz lump — more at clout

Date: 14th century

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 usually 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) plural : shoes equipped with cleats