Langimage
English

clout

|clout|

B2

/klaʊt/

influence or a heavy blow

Etymology
Etymology Information

'clout' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'clūt,' where it meant 'a piece of cloth or metal.'

Historical Evolution

'clūt' transformed into the Middle English word 'clout,' and eventually became the modern English word 'clout.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a piece of cloth or metal,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'influence' and 'a heavy blow.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

influence or power, especially in politics or business.

The senator has a lot of clout in Congress.

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Antonyms

Noun 2

a heavy blow with the hand or a hard object.

He gave him a clout on the head.

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Verb 1

to hit someone or something hard.

She clouted him across the face.

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Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40