1. the process or result of splitting or dividing into two or more parts
Usage: commonly used in biology and geology
2. a fissure or crack, especially in rock or soil
Usage: geological term

1. present participle of cleave; the act of splitting or separating
Usage: less common usage

Examples

• The clefting of the rock face created a narrow canyon.
• During embryonic development, clefting of the palate can occur.
• The geologist studied the clefting patterns in the mineral samples.
• Clefting in the soil indicated years of freeze-thaw cycles.
• The clefting process separated the crystal into two distinct pieces.
• Palatal clefting is a condition that can be corrected surgically.