cleft1
adj.
split, divided, or partially divided into two.past participle of
cleave1.
Phrase
- be
(or be caught)
in a cleft stick
be in a situation in which any action one takes will have adverse consequences.
cleft2
n.
- a fissure or split in rock or the ground.
- an indentation or deep hollow in a person's forehead or chin, or between two parts of the body.
Etymology
ME clift: of Gmc origin; rel. to cleave1 and alt. by assoc. with cleft1.
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