cleave

• Verb mit zwei gegensätzlichen Bedeutungen: etwas spalten, teilen oder zerteilen, oder aber fest und treu an etwas oder jemandem hängen.

A verb with two opposite meanings: to split or sever something, or to adhere firmly and loyally to something or someone.

unregelmäßiges Verb

1. Split or divideB2formal

   To split or separate something, especially with a sharp tool or force.

   Spalten

   • The lumberjack cleaved the log with a single stroke of his axe.
   • The lightning bolt cleaved the ancient oak tree in two.
   • The chef cleaved the chicken breast neatly down the middle.

   Synonymecutdividehewpartrendseparateseverslicesplitsunder

   Antonymeattachconnectjoinunite

2. Create by cuttingB2formal

   To make a path or opening by cutting through something.

   Bahnen durch Schneiden

   • The ship's bow cleaved a path through the icy waters.
   • The explorer cleaved a tunnel through the dense jungle.
   • The plow cleaved a furrow in the field.

   Synonymecuthewslicesplit

3. Adhere or clingB2formal

   To stick firmly to something or someone; to remain loyal or attached.

   Anhaften

   • The barnacles cleaved to the hull of the ship.
   • She cleaved to her principles despite the pressure.
   • The child cleaved to his mother's hand in the crowded market.

   Synonymeadhereattachclingcoherehold faststick

   Antonymedetachdisconnectdisjoinpartseparate