| n. | 1. | |
| 1. | (Carp.) A strip of wood or iron fastened on transversely to something in order to give strength, prevent warping, hold position, etc. | |
| 2. | (Naut.) 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. | |
| v. t. | 1. | To strengthen with a cleat. |
| Noun | 1. | cleat - a metal or leather projection (as from the sole of a shoe); prevents slipping |
| 2. | cleat - a fastener (usually with two projecting horns) around which a rope can be secured | |
| 3. | cleat - a strip of wood or metal used to strengthen the surface to which it is attached | |
| Verb | 1. | cleat - provide with cleats; "cleat running shoes for better traction" |
| 2. | cleat - secure on a cleat; "cleat a line" |