riven
Americanverb
adjective
-
rent or split apart.
-
split radially, as a log.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of riven
First recorded in 1275–1325, for the adjective
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Lebanon’s government isn’t only impoverished and outgunned, it’s riven by the same sectarian splits as the society as a whole.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 9, 2026
A former ambassador to Washington and independent politician, 76-year-old Karam is known for his defence of Lebanese unity in a country riven by sectarian divisions.
From Barron's ● May 15, 2026
Long before Nancy's arrival, the club was riven with disharmony.
From BBC ● Dec. 11, 2025
Pope Leo XIV is encouraging Turkey to be a source of stability and dialogue in a world riven by conflict.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 2, 2025
Psalms sung by the priests of King David, who united the kingdoms of Israel and Judaea in 1003 bc, are riven through with references to instruments and to singing.
From "The Story of Music" by Howard Goodall
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
