cloot

[ kloot; Scots klyt ]

noun

, Scot. and North England.

1. a cloven hoof; one of the divisions of the cloven hoof of the swine, sheep, etc.
2. (usually initial capital letter) Often Satan; the devil.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cloot¹

1715–25; perhaps akin to Dutch klauwtje, equivalent to klauw claw + -tje diminutive suffix

Example Sentences

There are no sweets thrown into the auditorium, they don't "bring down the cloot" for a singalong, and most of the audience are behind masks.

From BBC

Cloot′ie, the devil, because of his cloven hoof.

From Project Gutenberg

"One thing I will say for Charley—I believe in givin' everybody his dues—Charley's never laid a hand on me; and that's more'n Maisie Cloot can say!"

From Project Gutenberg

Mistress Kenawee's face, puir thing, was as white as a cloot; but Sandy's was as black as the man More o' Vennis, the bleckie that smored his wife i' the theatre for carryin' on wi' a sodger.

From Project Gutenberg

The cloot has unfortunately broke, but I have provided a fine buffalo-horn, on which I am going to affix the same cipher which you will remember was on the lid of the cloot.

From Project Gutenberg