Definition of cleave

• v. i. - To adhere closely; to stick; to hold fast; to cling.
• v. i. - To unite or be united closely in interest or affection; to adhere with strong attachment.
• v. i. - To fit; to be adapted; to assimilate.
• v. t. - To part or divide by force; to split or rive; to cut.
• v. t. - To part or open naturally; to divide.
• v. i. - To part; to open; to crack; to separate; as parts of bodies; as, the ground cleaves by frost.