cleave

• Verbe ayant deux sens opposés : fendre, séparer ou couper en deux, ou bien s'attacher fermement et fidèlement à quelque chose ou à quelqu'un.

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

verbe irrégulier

1. Split or divideB2formal

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

   fendre

   • 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.

   Synonymescutdividehewpartrendseparateseverslicesplitsunder

   Antonymesattachconnectjoinunite

2. Create by cuttingB2formal

   To make a path or opening by cutting through something.

   Fendre en coupant

   • 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.

   Synonymescuthewslicesplit

3. Adhere or clingB2formal

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

   Adhérer ou s'attacher

   • 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.

   Synonymesadhereattachclingcoherehold faststick

   Antonymesdetachdisconnectdisjoinpartseparate