clog

Clog is a term with several related meanings in English. It most commonly refers to a sturdy shoe with a wooden sole, but it can also denote an obstruction in a drain or pipe, and informally, the verb to clog, meaning to block passage. The word originates from the Dutch klomp or klompen, referring to wooden shoes, and entered English in the early modern period.

As footwear, clogs are characterized by a thick wooden sole, which may be carved from a single block of wood, and an upper made of leather, fabric, or wood. Traditional clogs were produced in many parts of Europe, notably the Netherlands and Scandinavia, where they served as durable work shoes for agricultural and industrial settings. Modern fashion clogs may incorporate plastic or cushioned soles and decorative elements; comfort and safety features vary with design.

In plumbing and drainage, to clog means to obstruct a passage with matter that resists flow. Common causes include hair and soap scum in drains, grease in kitchen pipes, and mineral buildup in hard water systems. Clogs can lead to slow drainage or water backups and may affect sinks, toilets, and sewer lines. Prevention includes strainers, mindful disposal of food waste, and regular cleaning; treatment ranges from mechanical methods (plungers, drain snakes) to chemical or enzymatic cleaners, with professional intervention for persistent blockages.

Clogging is also a form of percussive dance, notably associated with Dutch and Flemish traditions and later adopted in Appalachian and other styles. Traditional clogging uses wooden shoes with metal taps to create rhythmic sounds, while modern performances may blend elements of tap dance and folk music.