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Cloven Meaning: Definition and Examples

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cloven

[ˈkloʊ.vən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

animal anatomy

Cloven refers to a split or divided structure, particularly in the context of hooves. It is commonly used to describe the feet of certain animals, such as cattle, sheep, and goats, whose hooves are separated into two distinct parts.

Synonyms

divided, forked, split.

Examples of usage

  • The cow is a cloven-hoofed animal.
  • Cloven hooves help animals navigate rough terrain.
  • Sheep are known for their cloven feet.

Interesting Facts

Cultural References

  • In many cultures, cloven feet are associated with certain mythological creatures, such as satyrs and demons.
  • The term is used in various literary works to symbolize duality, with characters who may have a ‘cloven’ nature—good and evil.

Biology

  • Animals with cloven hooves are known as 'artiodactyls,' which include deer, pigs, and cattle.
  • The structure of cloven hooves helps these animals to run quickly and navigate different terrains.
  • Many cloven-footed animals have specialized digestive systems for processing fibrous plant material.

Symbolism

  • In various cultures, animals with cloven hooves are seen as symbols of abundance and fertility, often linked to agricultural practices.
  • The split hoof is often viewed metaphorically as a division of interests or allegiances, representing the struggle between opposing forces.

Folklore

  • Stories about witches and mythical creatures sometimes mention cloven hooves as a sign of magical or unearthly qualities.
  • In some regional folklore, seeing an animal with cloven hooves was believed to be an omen or a sign from the gods.

Origin of 'cloven'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cloven' comes from the Old English word 'clof,' meaning 'split.'
  • It is the past participle of the verb 'cleave,' which also means to split or divide.
  • Cloven is often used in reference to the hooves of animals like cows and sheep, which are split into two sections.

The word 'cloven' originates from the Old English 'clofan', which means to split or cleave. This is related to the verb 'cleave', which has dual meanings: to split apart and to adhere closely. The evolution of 'cloven' retains a focus on the idea of division or separation. In historical contexts, cloven refers specifically to the split hooves of several domesticated and wild animals, tying into agriculture and the rearing of livestock. Over time, it has also been adopted in various forms of literature and expressions, often symbolizing duality and division.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,088, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.