IPA: /ˈklɛftɪŋ/
KK: /ˈklɛftɪŋ/
The process of forming a split or opening, often referring to a physical condition like a cleft lip or palate.
Clefting can lead to challenges in speech and eating for those affected.
Clefting → The word is derived from "cleft" (from Old English "cleofan", meaning to split or divide) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process of). Thus, "clefting" refers to the action or process of splitting or dividing something.
Think of the action of 'splitting' ('cleofan') when you hear 'clefting' — it helps you remember that clefting means the process of splitting.