Cleave: meaning, definitions and examples
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cleave
[ kliːv ]
to split or sever
Cleave means to split or sever something, especially with a sharp instrument. It can also refer to clinging to or being loyal to someone or something. This word is often used in the context of cutting or dividing.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He cleaved the log in two with a single blow.
- She cleaved the rope with a swift motion of her knife.
- They cleaved to each other through thick and thin.
to adhere firmly
Cleave can also mean to adhere firmly to something, like an idea, belief, or person. It conveys a sense of strong attachment or loyalty.
Synonyms
adhere, cling, hold fast, stick
Examples of usage
- She cleaved to her principles despite the opposition.
- He cleaved to his faith in times of trouble.
Translations
Translations of the word "cleave" in other languages:
🇵🇹 fender
🇮🇳 विभाजित करना
🇩🇪 spalten
🇮🇩 membelah
🇺🇦 розколювати
🇵🇱 rozszczepić
🇯🇵 裂く (saku)
🇫🇷 fendre
🇪🇸 hender
🇹🇷 yarmak
🇰🇷 쪼개다 (jjogaeda)
🇸🇦 شق
🇨🇿 rozštípnout
🇸🇰 rozštiepiť
🇨🇳 劈开 (pīkāi)
🇸🇮 razcepiti
🇮🇸 kljúfa
🇰🇿 жару
🇬🇪 გახლეჩა
🇦🇿 yarmaq
🇲🇽 hender
Word origin
The word 'cleave' has a fascinating history as it is its own antonym. Its two distinct meanings, to split and to adhere, come from different Old English roots. The split sense comes from 'cleofan,' while the adhere sense comes from 'cleofian.' Over time, these two words merged into the single word 'cleave' with two contradictory meanings.