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cleft lip
noun
: a birth defect characterized by one or more clefts in the upper lip resulting from failure of the embryonic parts of the lip to unite
Examples of cleft lip in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The organization helps spread awareness about those with cleft lips and palates.
—Danny Horn, EW.com, 21 Dec. 2024
These surgeons also handle dental implants, reconstructive surgeries and surgeries related to cleft lips or palates.
—Marley Malenfant, Austin American-Statesman, 9 Sep. 2024
Now that she’s become well known not only for her art and fashion, but for being a cleft advocate, speaking around the country about her experience with a cleft lip and palate, Glasses has been traveling a lot for personal appearances, which leaves precious little time for weaving.
—Booth Moore, WWD, 29 Oct. 2024
Holly herself was born with a cleft lip and palate.
—Wendy Grossman Kantor, People.com, 26 Oct. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
circa 1882, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near cleft lip
Cite this Entry
“Cleft lip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cleft%20lip. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.
Kids Definition
cleft lip
noun
: one or more splits in the upper lip that occur as a birth defect
Medical Definition
cleft lip
noun
: a birth defect characterized by one or more clefts in the upper lip resulting from failure of the embryonic parts of the lip to unite
called also cheiloschisis
More from Merriam-Webster on cleft lip
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cleft lip
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