Cleave: meaning, definitions and examples

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cleave

[kliːv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

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

cut, sever, slice, split.

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.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cleave	Used in a literary or formal context to describe splitting or cutting apart, or less commonly, to mean adhering firmly. The woodcutter used his axe to cleave the log in two. Despite the challenges, she continued to cleave to her beliefs.
adhere	Used in formal or technical contexts to describe sticking to a surface or following rules strictly. The label will adhere better if you clean the surface first. Employees are expected to adhere to the company's code of conduct.
stick	Used in everyday, informal contexts to mean attaching something to a surface or continuing with an activity or belief. Can you stick this notice on the wall? She decided to stick with her original plan despite the suggestions.
cling	Used in informal contexts to describe holding tightly due to emotional dependence or physical grip. The child would cling to her mother when she felt scared. He clung to the edge of the cliff for dear life.
hold fast	Often used in formal or older contexts to describe holding firmly or maintaining a position or belief steadfastly. Soldiers were instructed to hold fast and defend their position. In the face of adversity, they held fast to their principles.

Examples of usage

She cleaved to her principles despite the opposition.
He cleaved to his faith in times of trouble.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word has Old English roots, coming from 'cleofan,' which means 'to split.'
It also shares Germanic roots, where similar words indicate both splitting and adhering.
The double meaning developed over time, showcasing the complexity of the English language.

Literature

In Shakespeare's works, the term often appears to describe both physical actions and emotional bonds.
Authors like James Joyce have played with its dual meanings to add depth to character relationships.
The word can highlight irony in literature, as a character may both cleave to a friend while also needing to cleave away from a danger.

Science

In biology, 'cleavage' refers to the process of a single cell dividing into two during the early stages of development.
The term is also used in geology to describe how materials split along defined planes.
In chemistry, molecules can 'cleave' during reactions, breaking down into simpler substances.

Pop Culture

The show 'Breaking Bad' uses the concept of cleaving in moral and ethical dilemmas faced by its characters.
Songs often explore the themes of cleaving to loved ones while facing separations, highlighting emotional complexity.
'Cleave' is also a popular title for various works in literature and film that explore duality and conflict.

Psychology

The psychological concept of attachment can parallel the idea of cleaving, as people may cling to or separate from their relationships.
In therapy, clients may be encouraged to 'cleave' from negative influences while 'cleaving' to supportive behaviors.
Understanding the dual meanings can help in discussions about conflict resolution and relationship dynamics.

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 Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,482, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
20479 saffron
20480 alder
20481 rugby
20482 cleave
20483 commonality
20484 napkins
20485 sexism
...