rift

The word “rift” means a deep crack or split, especially in the earth or rock. In plain terms, a split — either a physical crack in the ground, or a falling-out between people.

“Rift” is pronounced rihft (/ɹɪft/ in IPA).

Here is “rift” used in a sentence: “A rift opened in the valley floor after the earthquake.”

Depending on how it is used, “rift” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “rift” comes from Middle English. From Middle English rift, of North Germanic origin, related to Old Norse rífa (\"to tear\").

“Rift” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.

“Rift” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a deep crack or split, especially in the earth or rock.

"Rift" usually implies a sudden or dramatic split, whether physical, as in cracked rock, or relational, as in a serious disagreement between people. "Gap" is more neutral and can describe any space or difference without necessarily implying a break that occurred.

A "rift" is the break or disagreement itself, a rupture in a relationship between people or groups. A "feud" implies an ongoing, often prolonged conflict, which can be the result of an unresolved rift.

Yes, "rift" can function as a verb meaning to split apart, though the noun forms describing a physical crack or a relational break are more common in everyday use.