Definitions

riven

[riv-uhn] / ˈrɪv ən /

ADJECTIVE

broken

Synonyms

STRONGEST

busted collapsed cracked crumbled crushed damaged defective demolished destroyed fractured fragmented injured mangled mutilated ruptured severed shattered smashed splintered

STRONG

burst disintegrated dismembered pulverized rent separated shivered shredded slivered split

WEAK

fragmentary in pieces

Antonyms

STRONGEST

repaired unbroken

STRONG

mended patched up restored

WEAK

complete fixed perfect whole

ADJECTIVE

cleft

Synonyms

STRONG

broken cloven cracked crenelated parted perforated pierced rent ruptured separated sundered torn

WEAK

crannied

Antonyms

STRONG

connected fixed whole

WEAK

joined joint united

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.

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

The book he writes about Lalo develops his thesis that Creole culture embodies the “collective spirit” needed to heal a country riven by racial division and civil strife.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 20, 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

“I don’t think I made any mistake in deciding on riven oak,” he told them.

From "The Witch of Blackbird Pond" by Elizabeth George Speare

riven

Example Sentences

Related Words