cleave
Divide or adhere
Cleave is two opposite verbs spelled the same way.
One means to split or divide forcefully: The axe cleaved the log in two.
The other means to cling or adhere faithfully: She cleaved to her principles.
Context usually clarifies which is meant—splitting involves objects and tools, clinging involves loyalty or attachment.
Cut apart completely
- divideSeparate into parts
- separateTo set apart
- bisectDivide into two equal portions
- halveDivide into two
sunder · rend · partition · rift · fracture · hew · chop · hack
Shape by carving
- chiselEdged carving implement
- whittleCarve by shaving layers
- engraveCarve designs permanently
- notchV-shaped incision
incise · groove · etch · score · gouge · shape · fashion · hew
Consistently loyal and true
- devotedLoyally and lovingly attached
- steadfastFirmly loyal, unshakeable
- allegianceLoyalty owed to authority
- fidelityLoyalty or exactness
commitment · dedication · fealty · constancy · troth · loyalty · true · unswerving
sever
Cut apart completely
halve · sunder · rend · partition · rift · fracture · hew · chop · hack · slice
cling
Hold tightly to
cohere · grip · fuse · hold · embrace · clutch · grasp · clasp · fasten · join
sculpt
Shape by carving
notch · incise · groove · etch · score · gouge · shape · fashion · hew
faithful
Consistently loyal and true
- devotedLoyally and lovingly attached
- steadfastFirmly loyal, unshakeable
- allegianceLoyalty owed to authority
fidelity · commitment · dedication · fealty · constancy · troth · loyalty · true · unswerving · unwavering
- meat cleaverHeavy cutting blade
- Chinese cleaverWide rectangular Asian blade
- builder's cleavageExposed rear cleft
- bond cleavageBreaking molecular connections
- the CleaversClassic sitcom clan