English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word rift in English

What does rift mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

rift

US /rɪft/
UK /rɪft/
"rift" picture

Noun

1.

a crack, split, or break in something

Example:
•
A deep rift appeared in the glacier.
•
The earthquake caused a massive rift in the earth's surface.
Synonym:
fissurecracksplitfracturebreach
2.

a serious break in friendly relations between people or groups

Example:
•
The disagreement caused a deep rift between the two friends.
•
Political differences created a growing rift within the party.
Synonym:
schismdivisionsplitestrangementalienation

Verb

1.

to form a crack or split

Example:
•
The ice began to rift under the pressure.
•
The tectonic plates rift apart, creating new crust.
Synonym:
splitcrackcleavedivideseparate
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