MAT, noun [Latin matta.]

1. A texture of sedge, rushes, flags, husks, straw, or other material, to be laid on a floor for cleaning the boots and shoes of those who enter a house, and for other purposes.

2. A web of rope-yard, used in ships to secure the standing rigging from the friction of the yards, etc.

MAT, verb transitive To cover or lay with mats.

1. To twist together; to interweave like a mat; to entangle.

And o'er his eyebrows hung his matted hair.

2. To press together; to lay flat; as matted grass.