cleft palate

American  

noun

1. a congenital defect of the palate in which a longitudinal fissure exists in the roof of the mouth, often associated with a cleft lip.

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cleft palate British  

noun

1. a congenital crack or fissure in the midline of the hard palate, often associated with a harelip

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cleft palate Scientific  

1. Incomplete closure of the palate during development of an embryo, resulting in a split along part or all of the roof of the mouth.

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Etymology

Origin of cleft palate

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Reported problems include spina bifida, cleft palate, and a range of intellectual, communication, behavior and memory disorders.

From Science Daily • Nov. 28, 2025

Take lamotrigine, for instance: In the early 2000s, animal trials indicated that it could increase conditions like cleft palate, but later studies found no such link, reassuring clinicians.

From Salon • Sep. 10, 2024

Two months premature, she needed intensive care and surgery to mend a cleft palate.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 22, 2020

That element of the law has been interpreted by some as meaning terminations could be carried out with no time limit, in cases of Down's syndrome, cleft palate or club foot.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2020

They told Mom and Dad I had a cleft palate and some other stuff going on.

From "Wonder" by R. J. Palacio