Cleat
Cleat (klēt) , noun
[Old English clete wedge; compare Dutch kloot ball, German kloss, klotz, lump. clod, Middle High German klōz lump, ball, wedge, Old High German chlōz ball, round mass.]
1.
(Carpentry) A strip of wood or iron fastened on transversely to something in order to give strength, prevent warping, hold position, etc.
2.
(Nautical) 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.
Cleat , transitive verb
To strengthen with a cleat.