cleavage

//ˈkliːvɪdʒ//
C1Frequency Level 12Neutral
Visual representation of cleavage

Noun

cleavageSingular
cleavagesPlural
1

The act or process of splitting or dividing something, especially along a natural line or plane.

The cleavage of the rock along its natural fault lines made it easier to extract.

2

A sharp division or split, especially between groups or opinions.

There is a deep cleavage between the two political parties on this issue.

3

The hollow between a woman's breasts, especially when made visible by a low-cut garment.

Her dress showed a lot of cleavage.

4

(Biology) The series of cell divisions by which a fertilized egg develops into a blastula.

Cleavage begins shortly after fertilization and results in the formation of a blastula.

5

(Geology/Mineralogy) The tendency of a crystalline substance to split along definite planes, yielding smooth surfaces.

Mica has perfect cleavage, which allows it to be split into thin sheets.