Cleat (nautical)
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In nautical contexts, a cleat is a device attaching a rope. The traditional design is attached to a flat surface and features two “horns” extending parallel to the deck.
Other cleat designs include a cam cleat in which one or two cams pinch the rope but allow the rope to easily be pulled tighter and a clam cleat (or jam cleat) in which the rope is held between two fluted stationary pieces. Such a cleat vaguely resembles two halves of a clam shell held back to back.
On board merchant vessel, cleats are parts used to secure top hatchcovers before sailing.
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