split

verb

\ ˈsplit

split; splitting

Definition of split

(Entry 1 of 4)

1a : to divide lengthwise usually along a grain or seam or by layers

b : to affect as if by cleaving or forcing apart the river splits the town in two

2a(1) : to tear or rend apart : burst

(2) : to subject (an atom or atomic nucleus) to artificial disintegration by fission

b : to affect as if by breaking up or tearing apart : shatter a roar that split the air

3 : to divide into parts or portions: such as

a : to divide between persons : share

b : to divide into factions, parties, or groups

c : to mark (a ballot) or cast or register (a vote) so as to vote for candidates of different parties

d(1) : to divide or break down (a chemical compound) into constituents split a fat into glycerol and fatty acids

(2) : to remove by such separation split off carbon dioxide

e : to divide (stock) by issuing a larger number of shares to existing shareholders usually without increase in total par value

4 : to separate (the parts of a whole) by interposing something split an infinitive

5 : leave split the party split town

1a : to become split lengthwise or into layers

b : to break apart : burst

2a : to become divided up or separated off split into factions split from the group

b : to sever relations or connections : separate

c : leave especially : to leave without delay split for the coast

3 British : to betray confidence : act as an informer —usually used with on

4 : to apportion shares

split hairs

: to make oversubtle or trivial distinctions

split one's sides

: to laugh heartily

split the difference

: to arrive at a compromise