Cleave Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cleave
[kliːv ]
Definitions
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.
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.
|
| adhere |
Used in formal or technical contexts to describe sticking to a surface or following rules strictly.
|
| stick |
Used in everyday, informal contexts to mean attaching something to a surface or continuing with an activity or belief.
|
| cling |
Used in informal contexts to describe holding tightly due to emotional dependence or physical grip.
|
| hold fast |
Often used in formal or older contexts to describe holding firmly or maintaining a position or belief steadfastly.
|
Examples of usage
- She cleaved to her principles despite the opposition.
- He cleaved to his faith in times of trouble.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'cleave'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
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.