cloven
UK[ˈkləʊv(ə)n]US[ˈkloʊv(ə)n]
adj
split or divided into two parts, especially of a hoof
Etymology
the word 'cloven' originates from the old english past participle 'clofen' of the verb 'clēofan', meaning 'to split, cleave, or adhere'. this verb is of germanic origin, tracing back to the proto-germanic kleubaną, and further to the proto-indo-european root gleubh-, meaning 'to cut, slice, or tear apart'. the semantic journey is direct, from the ancient action of splitting to its specific modern application describing the divided hoof of animals like cattle, sheep, and goats. the dual, seemingly contradictory meanings of 'cleave'—to split apart and to adhere closely—both derive from this same root, representing different facets of the concept of joining or separating.
Analysis
the word is a past participle form of the verb 'cleave' (meaning to split). it is not productively formed from separable modern english morphemes.
Examples
the goat stood on the rocky outcrop, its cloven hooves providing perfect grip.
the devil is often depicted in folklore as having cloven feet.
the chef expertly prepared the rack of lamb, cutting between the cloven ribs.