The plural form of cliver, or an archaic term for cleavers (the plant Galium aparine), also called goosegrass.
From Old English cleofan meaning 'to cleave' or 'split,' reflecting the plant's clinging, sticky property. The plant got its name from its tendency to cling to clothing.
Goosegrass is so sticky it practically leaps onto your clothes while you hike—its name in multiple languages literally describes this annoying quality, showing how plants get names from their most memorable traits.
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