cleave

UK: kliːv | US: kliːv

Definition

  1. vt. to split or sever something, especially along a natural line or grain

  2. vi. to adhere firmly or loyally (often used with "to")

Structure
cleave <to split>cleave <to adhere>
Etymology

The word "cleave" is a rare example of a contronym—a single word with two opposite meanings. This duality stems from two distinct Old English verbs:

  1. Clēofan (to split): Derived from Proto-Germanic kleuban, related to cutting or dividing (e.g., "cleaver").
  2. Clifian (to adhere): From Proto-Germanic klibāną, meaning to stick or cling (e.g., "cling").
    Over time, the spellings merged into "cleave," while the meanings remained oppositional. This reflects how language can preserve ancient roots even when logic seems contradictory.
Examples

  1. The lumberjack used an axe to cleave the log in two.

  2. Despite their differences, she vowed to cleave to her principles.

  3. The laser can cleave through diamond with precision.

  4. The tribe's traditions cleave closely to ancient customs.

  5. He tried to cleave the rope but only managed to fray it.