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Definition of harelip

harelip

/ˈhɛər.lɪp/
hare · lip
Plural:harelips
•
Adjective:harelipped
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harelip Lexical Profile

harelip Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A congenital split or fissure in the upper lip, now clinically and respectfully referred to as a cleft lip.

Example

"Older medical textbooks often used the term harelip before cleft lip became the standard clinical designation."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for harelip

Word Nuance & Usage

In modern medical and polite usage, 'harelip' is considered dated and potentially offensive; the standard clinical and respectful term is 'cleft lip'.

• Nearby Words

hardy geranium
hare
harebrained
harelip
harem
hari
hari river

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'harelip' (and Old English 'hærsceard'), formed by combining 'hare' and 'lip' in reference to the natural vertical division in the upper lip of a hare.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Harelip. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/harelip
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