# cleavage

/ˈkɫivədʒ/ (US) · /klˈiːvɪdʒ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cleavage
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. anatomy

noun · CEFR B2

the space between a woman's breasts, especially when visible above a low-cut dress.

For teachers: the hollow or separation between a woman's breasts, typically as revealed by a low neckline.

- She wore a dress with a low neckline that showed some cleavage.
- The fashion editor noted that the gown's plunging neckline was designed to accentuate the model's cleavage without appearing overly provocative.

Usage: Usually uncountable in this sense.

### 2. social/political division

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Formal

a sharp division or disagreement between different groups of people.

For teachers: a sharp division or split between groups, particularly regarding voting patterns, social classes, or political ideologies.

- There is a clear cleavage between urban and rural voters in this election.
- The political scientist argued that the primary cleavage in the country was no longer based on class but on educational attainment.

Teaching tip: In political science, this refers to a deep and lasting social division that creates a stable voting bloc.

### 3. cell division

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the way a cell splits into smaller cells after it has been fertilized.

For teachers: the series of rapid mitotic cell divisions that transform a zygote into a multicellular embryo.

- The scientist watched the early stages of cell cleavage under the microscope.
- During the initial stages of embryonic development, cleavage occurs without any significant increase in the total volume of the cytoplasm.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun in biological contexts.

### 4. mineral splitting

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

the way a rock or crystal naturally breaks along flat surfaces.

For teachers: the tendency of a mineral or crystal to break along definite planes of structural weakness.

- Diamonds have perfect cleavage, which means they can be split easily in certain directions.
- The geologist identified the specimen by observing its perfect cubic cleavage and distinctive metallic lustre.

## Examples

- The cell undergoes cleavage to form two new cells.
- There is a deep political cleavage between the two parties on this issue.
- The rapid cleavage of the fertilized egg marks the beginning of embryonic development, establishing the cellular foundation for the organism.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.