cleave crossword clue 5 letters – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "cleave crossword clue 5 letters", you've come to the right place. We provide the most accurate answers and detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Explore the solutions below, along with insights into this fascinating word.
Solutions for "cleave crossword clue 5 letters" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SPLIT: This is a common answer for "cleave" when the clue refers to the act of dividing or separating something, often forcefully, such as splitting wood or cleaving a path.
CLING: Alternatively, "cleave" can mean to adhere or stick fast to something. This answer is used when the clue implies holding tightly or remaining loyal, as in 'cleave to one's beliefs'.
More About "cleave crossword clue 5 letters"
"Cleave" is a classic example of a contronym (or auto-antonym) – a word that is its own opposite. It can mean to split apart (from Old English "clēofan") or to stick together (from Old English "clifian"). This duality makes it a favorite among crossword setters looking to add a layer of challenge and wit to their puzzles.
When you encounter "cleave" in a crossword clue, the first step is to consider which of its two primary meanings the setter is hinting at. The surrounding words in the clue, or even the theme of the puzzle, will often provide the necessary context. Understanding this linguistic quirk is crucial for confidently solving such clues.
Crossword puzzles often rely on such wordplay, so recognizing words with multiple, especially opposing, meanings is a skill that will greatly improve your solving speed and accuracy. Remember that a simple word can hide a complex etymology, leading to delightful and challenging clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Embrace Contronyms: Words like "cleave" are designed to trick you. Always consider if a word has an opposite meaning or multiple definitions. Familiarize yourself with common contronyms to quickly identify these linguistic traps.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: The letters you've filled in from other clues are your best friends. They can quickly narrow down the possibilities for ambiguous words like "cleave," confirming whether the intended answer is 'SPLIT' or 'CLING' based on existing letters.
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: Pay close attention to the phrasing of the clue. Is it 'Cleave wood' (suggesting SPLIT) or 'Cleave to a belief' (suggesting CLING)? Small prepositions or accompanying words can be definitive indicators of the correct meaning.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'cleave' have two opposite meanings in English?
'Cleave' is a unique word (a contronym or auto-antonym) because it has two opposing meanings: to split apart and to stick together. This duality comes from two distinct Old English verbs, 'clēofan' (to split) and 'clifian' (to adhere), which over time converged into the single modern form 'cleave', making it a popular choice for tricky crossword clues.
What other words are common crossword answers for the 'adhere' meaning of cleave?
Beyond 'CLING', other common answers for the 'adhere' sense of cleave in crosswords might include STICK (5 letters), FUSE (4 letters), or BOND (4 letters), depending on the letter count required. Always consider the precise nuance of the clue and surrounding letters.
How can I distinguish which meaning of 'cleave' a crossword clue intends?
Context is key! Look at other words in the clue for hints. For example, 'Cleave wood' clearly suggests 'SPLIT', while 'Cleave to tradition' implies 'CLING'. Also, consider the specific number of letters required and any intersecting letters you've already filled in from other clues. The setter often provides subtle clues to guide you.