cleave is the dictionary form of cloven Definition of cleave
cloven
1. [ verb ] separate or cut with a tool, such as a sharp instrument
Synonyms: split rive
Examples:

"cleave the bone"

Related terms: tear maul laminate cleft rent splitter cleavage
2. [ verb ] come or be in close contact with; stick or hold together and resist separation
Synonyms: cling cohere adhere stick
Examples:

"The dress clings to her body" "The label stuck to the box" "The sushi rice grains cohere"

Related terms: touch mold conglutinate agglutinate adhere stick coherence adhesiveness attach
3. [ verb ] make by cutting into
Examples:

"The water is going to cleave a channel into the rock"

Related terms: make cut
Similar spelling:   Clevenger
  Clevinger