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Glite Dictionary
cleavable

cleavable

7.6
Can be split along a natural line or flat surface
  • adjective
  • /ˈklivəbl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : divisible
  • This mineral is cleavable along flat planes.

Examples

  • The chemical linker is cleavable under certain conditions, allowing easy separation.

  • Scientists designed a cleavable peptide for targeted drug delivery.

  • This mineral is cleavable along specific planes.

  • The rock is cleavable due to its unique structure.

  • The mineral is cleavable along flat surfaces, making it easier to shape for use in jewelry.

  • This synthetic material is cleavable under heat, which allows for straightforward recycling.

  • The chemist created a cleavable bond that breaks down easily for more efficient drug targeting.

Synonyms

severable
vscleavable
1 7.9

Part of something that can be removed from the rest, for example a clause in a contract

is split specifically along a natural plane by physical or chemical means
partible
vscleavable
  • Specialized
9.9

Able to be divided into parts

is about splitting along a natural plane rather than legal or ownership division

Antonyms

inseparable
46 3.4

Cannot be divided and kept apart, like joined parts or very close friends

How Easy

fissile
  • Specialized
8.6
cleavable
  • Specialized
7.6

Surface Forms

cleavable positive

Morphology

cleavable = cleave (semi-transparent) = cleave + able

Formed regularly from 'cleave' + '-able', but because 'cleave' also has an opposite sense 'adhere', the intended 'split' sense may not be obvious to all learners.

Etymology

Cleavable comes from the verb cleave meaning 'to split' and the ending -able meaning 'able to be'. Think of a rock that breaks along a flat line or a kitchen cleaver that cuts along a line; that's why cleavable means something that can be split or divided along a natural line.