Definition of cleavage


What is Cleavage?

Cleavage is a term used to describe a deep, narrow opening or split between two objects or surfaces. It can also refer to the gap between a person’s breasts. The word cleavage comes from the Latin word “clivus,” which means “slope” or “inclination.”

Origin of the Term

The term cleavage was first used in the early 19th century to describe the way rocks split along natural lines or planes. It was later adopted to describe the space between a person’s breasts due to its similarity to the way rocks split.

Cleavage in Everyday Life

You can find examples of cleavage in many everyday objects and situations. For instance, when a piece of wood is cut with a saw, it often creates a cleavage line. Similarly, when a watermelon is sliced, it reveals cleavage between its juicy red flesh and rind. Cleavage can also be observed in geology, where rocks split along natural planes or fractures.

Synonyms and Comparisons

Cleavage can be referred to by various synonyms, such as “split,” “crack,” or “gap.” It is similar to a crevice or crease, but with a narrower and more defined opening. Just like a canyon forms a deep gap between mountains, cleavage forms a gap between two objects or surfaces.

The Definition of Cleavage

In conclusion, cleavage refers to a deep and narrow opening or split between objects or surfaces. It can also be the space between a person’s breasts. The term originated from the way rocks split along natural lines, and it can be observed in various aspects of daily life. Cleavage is similar to other words like “gap” or “split,” but it has a more specific and defined meaning.