Clout
February 13, 2008
clout /klout/ n. 1. Political influence, as exercised through patronage, fixing, money, favors and other traditional City Hall methods, according to Mike Royko's 1973 definition. 2. The person wielding such influence. "My clout told me to keep my mouth shut." v. 1. To use political influence to get something done. From Royko: "Hey, Charlie, I see you made foreman. Who's clouting for you?"
