One cleave means “to adhere firmly and closely or loyally and unwaveringly,” as in “a family that cleaves to tradition”; it comes from the Old English verb clifian, meaning “to adhere.”

Cleave, a verb, has two very different meanings. It can describe cutting or splitting something apart with a sharp instrument, or — oddly enough — it can describe sticking to something like glue.

Phrasal verb cleave to something (Definition of cleave from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)

To split or be capable or splitting, especially along a natural line of division: Certain brittle woods cleave easily. 2. To penetrate or pass through something, such as water or air. [Middle English cleven, from …

Definition of cleave verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

To cleave something means to split or divide it into two separate parts, often violently.

The comprehensive definition of cleave. Includes pronunciation, synonyms, etymology, and usage examples to help you master this word.

Apr 17, 2026 · Verb cleave (third-person singular simple present cleaves, present participle cleaving, simple past and past participle cleaved) (intransitive, rare) Followed by to or unto: to adhere, cling, or …

Cleave, a verb, has two very different meanings. It can describe cutting or splitting something apart with a sharp instrument, or — oddly enough — it can describe sticking to something like glue.

Cleave has two opposing meanings - 1) To split or sever something, especially along a natural line or grain. 2) To stick closely or adhere strongly to something.