Rive is a verb that means to split or tear apart violently.

Our word of the day’s origin isn’t fully known, but we do know it comes from Old Norse and has been with us since the 14th century. Here’s an example of rive in use:

I was so angry at the tiny amount I was paid for my landscaping work that I decided to rive the check right in front of my boss. But when I realized I needed to pay my rent that week, I felt that tearing my check up might not be the best way to express my displeasure.