cleavage

word

Definition

Cleavage is the space or line shown between a person's breasts, especially when emphasized by clothing. It can also refer to the act of splitting or dividing, often used in science to talk about cells or minerals.

Usage & Nuances

In everyday English, 'cleavage' most commonly refers to the low neckline in women's clothing showing the chest area. In science, it's formal and describes splitting, especially in minerals or cell division. Don't confuse 'cleavage' with 'cleaver' (a type of knife).

Example Sentences

Her dress showed a little cleavage at the top.

basic

Many minerals have a natural cleavage that makes them break easily.

basic

During cell cleavage, one cell splits into two.

basic

The movie star's gown had dramatic cleavage that caught everyone's attention.

natural

You can recognize some minerals by their cleavage pattern under a microscope.

natural

Her outfit was classy, with just a hint of cleavage—nothing too flashy.

natural