I. ˈkleft noun
Etymology: Middle English clift, from Old English geclyft; akin to Old English clēofan to cleave
Date: 14th century
1. : a space or opening made by or as if by splitting : fissure
2. : a usually V-shaped indented formation : a hollow between ridges or protuberances
the anal cleft of the human body
II. adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from past participle of cleven
Date: 14th century
: partially split or divided ; specifically : divided about halfway to the midrib
a cleft leaf