Cleats Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cleats

[kliːts ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

sports equipment

Cleats are shoes with metal or rubber spikes on the soles, designed to provide better traction on surfaces such as grass or dirt. They are commonly used in sports like soccer, baseball, and football.

Synonyms

boots, spikes, studs.

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Word Description / Examples
cleats

These are shoes with protrusions on the soles used in sports like soccer, football, baseball, and for cycling to avoid slipping.

  • He put on his cleats before the soccer match
  • The new cleats provided better grip on the field
spikes

Shoes with pointed metal or plastic protrusions, mainly used in athletics like running and track events for better traction.

  • The runner tightened his spikes before the race
  • Spikes are essential for gaining speed on the track
studs

Small pointed projections on the soles of shoes, used mainly in sports like soccer and rugby to enhance grip on grass and turf.

  • The soccer player's studs dug into the muddy field
  • She checked her studs to ensure they were secure before the match
boots

Footwear that covers the foot and ankle, sometimes extending up the leg. Used in various contexts including fashion, work, and specific sports.

  • She wore boots to protect her feet while hiking
  • The soccer player laced up his boots before the game

Examples of usage

  • Tom wore his cleats for the soccer match.
  • She bought new cleats for the upcoming baseball season.
  • The football players switched to longer cleats for the wet field.
  • Make sure to clean the mud off your cleats after the game.
  • The coach recommended getting cleats with adjustable studs.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Sports

  • Cleats are essential equipment in many sports, including soccer, football, and baseball, providing players with stability and grip.
  • Different sports have specialized cleats; for example, soccer cleats are designed for agility, while football cleats focus on traction and support.

Technology

  • Modern cleat technology includes lightweight materials and customizable spike patterns to enhance performance depending on the playing surface.
  • Some cleats now incorporate advanced cushioning and breathability features to keep athletes comfortable during games.

Cultural Impact

  • Cleats have become a fashion statement among young athletes, often reflecting personal style and team spirit.
  • Famous athletes have made brands of cleats iconic, influencing both sports culture and fashion trends around the globe.

Safety

  • Wearing the correct type of cleats helps prevent injuries by providing proper support and minimizing slips on uneven surfaces.
  • Coaches often emphasize the importance of wearing appropriate cleats to avoid foot and ankle injuries during games.

Origin of 'cleats'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cleat' comes from the Old English term 'clætte', meaning a small hook or metal fitting.
  • Originally, cleats referred to pieces of wood or metal used for fastening ropes; over time, it evolved to describe the shoe spikes.

The word 'cleat' originated from Old English 'clēat' meaning 'lump or wedge'. In the context of sports shoes, the term 'cleats' first appeared in the early 20th century, when athletes started using spiked shoes for better grip and traction on various surfaces.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,909, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.