rift

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a gap between cloud masses
  2. noun a narrow fissure in rock
  3. noun a personal or social separation (as between opposing factions)

Etymology

From Middle English rift, of North Germanic origin; akin to Danish rift, Norwegian Bokmål rift (“breach”), Old Norse rífa (“to tear”). More at rive.

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