Question

cleave verb \klev\\
transitive verb
1 : to divide by or as if by a cutting blow : split
2 : to separate into distinct parts and especially into groups having divergent views
3 : to subject to chemical cleavage, a protein cleaved by an enzyme
intransitive verb
1 : to adhere firmly and closely or loyally and unwaveringly
which definition is most likely intended in the following sentence?
the axe was made of a metal strong enough to cleave even the strongest marble.
a. transitive definition 2
b. transitive definition 3
c. intransitive definition 1
d. transitive definition 1

Explanation:

The sentence describes an axe splitting marble. The transitive definition 1 of "cleave" means to divide by or as if by a cutting blow: split, which fits the context.

Answer:

D. Transitive definition 1