Define cleft Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/dɪˈfɑɪn ˈklɛft/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A divide or separation, often referring to a gap or opening in a physical object or a distinction between two concepts.

Examples

• The hike involved navigating a steep cleft in the mountain.
• The article highlighted the define cleft between the two political parties.

Synonyms

• Gap
• Fissure

Antonyms

• Unity
• Continuity

Additional Information

A define cleft can refer to a physical separation, such as a crack in a rock or a division in a landscape. It can also metaphorically describe a distinction between two ideas or concepts, highlighting their differences. In both cases, the term emphasizes the existence of a clear separation or divide.

In everyday language, a define cleft can be used to describe a range of situations, from a gap in a schedule to a disagreement between friends. It can also be used in more technical contexts, such as in geology or philosophy, to describe specific types of divisions or separations.

Etymology

The word “cleft” comes from the Old English word “clift”, meaning “split” or “divide”. The prefix “define” was added to emphasize the clear and distinct nature of the separation.

Usage Notes

When using the term “define cleft”, it’s essential to consider the context in which it is being used. In physical descriptions, the term can be used to describe a clear separation or gap. In metaphorical contexts, it can be used to highlight the distinction between two ideas or concepts.

Cultural References

The concept of a define cleft has been explored in various forms of art and literature, often symbolizing division, separation, or contrast. Examples include the contrasting landscapes in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” or the theme of separation in William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• a define cleft in opinion
• a define cleft in the road

Related Words or Phrases

• Fissure
• Rift

Collocations

• define cleft in the rock
• define cleft between the parties

Frequency of Use

The term “define cleft” is moderately frequent in modern language, often used in technical or metaphorical contexts to describe clear separations or distinctions.

Common Misspellings

• Defind cleft
• Deffine cleft