clout
UK: klaʊt | US: klaʊt
n. 1. Influence or power, especially in politics or business.
n. 2. A heavy blow with the hand or a hard object.
vt. 1. To hit someone or something hard.
The word "clout" traces back to Old English clūt, meaning "a patch or piece of cloth," which later evolved to signify a blow (from the idea of hitting with a cloth-wrapped object). By the 19th century, it metaphorically extended to mean "influence" (likely from the idea of striking a deal or making an impact). The dual meanings reflect both physical force and social power.
She has considerable clout in the tech industry.
He gave the ball a mighty clout with his bat.
The boxer clouted his opponent in the third round.
Political clout often determines policy outcomes.
The newspaper’s editorial clout shapes public opinion.