noun
clout
klowt
Clout (noun) means Influence or power, especially in politics or business. Example: “As a major donor, she carries a lot of clout with the party leadership.”
noun
1
Influence or power, especially in politics or business.
"As a major donor, she carries a lot of clout with the party leadership."
"His years in the industry gave him serious clout when negotiating deals."
2
A blow struck with the hand or fist (informal).
"He gave the vending machine a clout when it swallowed his coins."
verb
1
To hit someone or something, especially with the fist.
"She clouted him playfully on the arm for the bad joke."
How to use clout
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishReal-world influence or power — or, in its older sense, a solid hit or whack.
When to use it
The "hit" sense is informal/dated; the "influence" sense is the one most common in modern usage, especially in politics and media.
Common pairings
political clout
carry clout
have clout
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Word forms
- Plural
- clouts
- Third person singular
- clouts
- Past tense
- clouted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
As a major donor, she carries a lot of _____ with the party leadership.
Etymology
From Old English clūt, originally "a piece of cloth" or "metal plate" — the "influence" sense developed much later, notably in Chicago political slang, before spreading more widely.
Related words
Rhymes for clout
See all rhymes for clout →Frequently asked questions
What does “clout” mean?
The word “clout” means influence or power, especially in politics or business. In plain terms, real-world influence or power — or, in its older sense, a solid hit or whack.
How do you pronounce “clout”?
“Clout” is pronounced klowt (/klaʊt/ in IPA).
How do you use “clout” in a sentence?
Here is “clout” used in a sentence: “As a major donor, she carries a lot of clout with the party leadership.”
What part of speech is “clout”?
Depending on how it is used, “clout” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “clout” come from?
The word “clout” comes from Old English. From Old English clūt, originally "a piece of cloth" or "metal plate" — the "influence" sense developed much later, notably in Chicago political slang, before spreading more widely.
How many meanings does “clout” have?
“Clout” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: influence or power, especially in politics or business.
