cloven hoof

noun

1
: a foot (as of a sheep) divided into two parts at its distal extremity
2
[from the traditional representation of Satan as cloven-hoofed] : the sign of devilish character
cloven-hoofed
ˈklō-vən-ˌhu̇ft How to pronounce cloven hoof (audio)
-ˌhüft, 
-ˌhu̇vd, 
-ˌhüvd How to pronounce cloven hoof (audio)
adjective

Examples of cloven hoof in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Their bodies are built for harsh desert conditions, from their cloven hooves and extra-long eyelashes to their cactus-chewing mouths. — Elaina Zachos, National Geographic, 30 May 2018 Leaving cloven hoof prints from the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, more than 3,500 musk oxen live in Alaska. — Ned Rozell, Anchorage Daily News, 3 July 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cloven hoof was in 1611

Rhymes for cloven hoof

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Browse Nearby Words

cloven foot
cloven hoof
clove nutmeg
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Cite this Entry

“Cloven hoof.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cloven%20hoof. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cloven hoof

noun
: cloven foot
cloven-hoofed
ˌklō-vən-ˈhu̇ft, 
-ˈhüft, 
-ˈhu̇vd, 
-ˈhüvd
adjective

Medical Definition

More from Merriam-Webster on cloven hoof

Nglish: Translation of cloven hoof for Spanish Speakers

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