cleat

Plural: cleats

Noun

• a metal or leather projection (as from the sole of a shoe); prevents slipping
• a fastener (usually with two projecting horns) around which a rope can be secured
• a strip of wood or metal used to strengthen the surface to which it is attached
• A strip of wood or iron fastened on transversely to something in order to give strength, prevent warping, hold position, etc.
• A continuous metal strip, or angled piece, used to secure metal components.
• A device to quickly affix a line or rope, and from which it is also easy to release.
• A protrusion on the bottom of a shoe or wheel meant for better traction.
• An athletic shoe equipped with cleats.

Verb

• provide with cleats
  • "cleat running shoes for better traction"
• secure on a cleat
  • "cleat a line"
• To strengthen with a cleat.
• To tie off, affix, stopper a line or rope, especially to a cleat.
• -ED, -ING, -S to strengthen with a strip of wood or iron