harelip
/hɛːˈlɪp
/noun offensive
Another term for cleft lip.The author of this article is careful to point out that he is not referring to defects that can be treated (harelips, spina bifidas, or deformities of the extremities)....
- He said the baby, registered as Carlos Beddoes, was recovering well after an operation to correct a cleft palate and harelip and should be returning from hospital to the refugio in the next few days.
- My mother has a harelip, as you know; that is a bit difficult for her now, but it was devastating to her as a little girl.
Usage
Use of the word harelip can cause offence and should be avoided; use cleft lip instead.
Derivatives
harelipped
/ adjective ...- Three months later, the harelipped twin had her first surgery.
- Hassan is a gentle harelipped servant boy whose flat nose and dark features mark him as a descendent of the Mongul people of China.
- When she was born harelipped, neighbors feared that she might bring bad luck and suggested that she be abandoned in the jungles.
Origin
Mid 16th century: from a perceived resemblance to the mouth of a hare.