Definition of CLEFT (original) (raw)
1
: a space or opening made by or as if by splitting : fissure
2
: a usually V-shaped indented formation : a hollow between ridges or protuberances
the anal cleft of the human body
: partially split or divided
specifically : divided about halfway to the midrib
Synonyms
Examples of cleft in a Sentence
Noun
The river begins as a trickle of water from a cleft in the rock. He has a distinctive cleft in his chin.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Valproic acid causes birth defects that can be detected in utero such as oral clefts or spina bifida. —
Almut Winterstein, The Conversation, 30 Jan. 2025 Now that she’s become well known not only for her art and fashion, but for being a cleft advocate, speaking around the country about her experience with a cleft lip and palate, Glasses has been traveling a lot for personal appearances, which leaves precious little time for weaving. —Booth Moore, WWD, 29 Oct. 2024
The gears that turn TikTok have always been opaque, but there was no question: The algorithm loved this cute girl with the cleft chin and the perpetual smile. —Brittany Spanos, Rolling Stone, 21 Jan. 2025 Her cleft palette scar is always visible and a reminder of her childhood marked by teasing and torment. —Carolyn Giardina, Variety, 16 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for cleft 
Word History
Etymology
Noun
Middle English clift, from Old English geclyft; akin to Old English clēofan to cleave
Adjective
Middle English, from past participle of cleven
First Known Use
Noun
14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Adjective
14th century, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of cleft was in the 14th century
Dictionary Entries Near cleft
Cite this Entry
“Cleft.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cleft. Accessed 12 Feb. 2025.
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Last Updated: 10 Feb 2025 - Updated example sentences
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