divide

UK: dɪˈvaɪd | US: dɪˈvaɪd

Definition

  1. vt. to separate into parts or groups

  2. vt. to distribute or share

  3. vi. to diverge or branch off

  4. n. a difference or disagreement

Structure
di <apart>vide <separate>di <apart>vide <separate>
Etymology

The word "divide" originates from Latin "dividere," combining "dis-" (apart) and "videre" (to separate). It entered Middle English via Old French "divider," retaining its core meaning of splitting or distributing. The logical progression reflects physical separation (e.g., dividing land) and abstract divergence (e.g., divided opinions).

Examples

  1. The river divides the city into two regions.

  2. She divided the cake equally among the children.

  3. The committee is divided on the new policy.

  4. A mountain range divides the two countries.

  5. Cells divide rapidly during early growth stages.