a wedge-shaped block fastened to a surface to serve as a check or support

He nailed cleats into the sides of the bookcase to keep the supports from slipping.

a strip of metal, wood, or the like, fastened across a surface, as a ramp or gangway, to provide sure footing or to maintain an object in place.

a strip of wood, metal, etc., fastened across a surface, as of a plank or series of adjacent planks, for strength or support.

a conical or rectangular projection, usually of hard rubber, or a metal strip with sharp projections, built into or attached to the sole of a shoe to provide greater traction.

a shoe fitted with such projections.

a metal plate fastened to the sole or heel of a shoe, to protect against wear.

Shipbuilding . a hook-shaped piece of metal supporting a small structural member.

Also called belaying cleat. Nautical . an object of wood or metal having one or two projecting horns to which ropes may be belayed, esp. as fixed to the deck, bulkhead, or stanchion of a vessel.

the cleavage plane of coal as found in a mine.

to supply or strengthen with cleats; fasten to or with a cleat.

noun

batten , bit , block , bollard , chock , metal , spike , spur , support , wedge , wood