noun / verb
cleat
KLEET/kliːt/
A projecting piece providing a secure grip.
The rope wraps securely around the two projecting horns of the cleat.
Etymology
Middle English clete meant a wedge, including one fixed to a spar to stop slipping. The word later named plates under shoes, first for protecting soles and then for grip.
In context
there's a spring line that goes from the bow cleat on the boat to a cleat on the center of the dock and that limits forward motion
More examples
- Mud collected between the cleats on her soccer shoes.
- He cleated the line securely before stepping ashore.
- The team changed into their cleats beside the field.
Forms
cleat · cleats · cleated · cleating
Similar words
- hook
- A curved catching device, while a cleat often has projecting arms or traction ridges.