cleat / klēt/ • n. a T-shaped piece of metal or wood, esp. on a boat or ship, to which ropes are attached. ∎  one of a number of projecting pieces of metal, rubber, or other material on the sole of a shoe, designed to prevent the wearer from losing their footing. ∎  (cleats) athletic shoes with a cleated sole, typically used when playing football. ∎  a projection on a spar or other part of a ship, to prevent slipping. ∎  a small wedge, esp. one on a plow or scythe.DERIVATIVES: cleat·ed adj.

cleat

cleat wedge XV; (naut.) block round which a rope is secured XVIII. Formally repr. OE. *clēat = MLG. *klōt (Du. kloot ball). OHG. klōz clod, lump, etc. (G. kloss dumpling) :- WGmc. *klauta (cf. CLOT); but the naut. sense in Eng. is unexpl.

cleat System of joints in most coal seams, along which the coal parts. There are usually two systems at right angles, one better developed and with a more shiny surface than the other. The orientation and intensity of cleats may influence the direction of mine workings.

cleat. Small timber block fixed to principals to help to secure them to purlins, or fixed to posts to form a bearing when timbers are not housed into them.