
Cleave
Physical Action
Cleave as a verb usually describes a forceful, physical splitting action.
He used a sword to cleave the shield in half.
Natural Line
When cleaving, the split often follows a natural or existing line or grain, like with wood or meat.
The butcher cleaved along the joint of the meat.
Not Peaceful
Cleaving something can be violent or require great effort, not gentle or peaceful.
During the rescue, firefighters had to cleave the door apart.