cleaving

(verb) separate or cut with a tool, such as a sharp instrument. Synonyms: cleave, split, rive. Example: "Cleave the bone."

(verb) make by cutting into. Synonyms: cleave. Example: "The water is going to cleave a channel into the rock."

(verb) come or be in close contact with; stick or hold together and resist separation. Synonyms: cling, cleave, adhere, stick, cohere. Examples: "The dress clings to her body." "The label stuck to the box." "The sushi rice grains cohere."