A cleaver is a versatile kitchen tool characterized by its large, heavy blade with a sharp edge. It is commonly used for chopping and slicing through tough cuts of meat, such as beef or pork, with ease. The combination of the cleaver's weight and sharpness makes it ideal for tasks like butchering, breaking bones, and cutting through joints. With its distinctive shape and purpose, the cleaver is an essential tool for professional chefs and home cooks alike when it comes to handling meat in the kitchen.