The term 'split open' can be described by four different words: RIVE (4 letters), CLEAVE (6 letters), RIP (3 letters), and BURST (5 letters). RIVE means to split or tear apart with a sudden violent pull, while CLEAVE means to split or divide something along a natural line. RIP is to tear or split something apart with force, and BURST is to break open suddenly and violently. All of these words describe the action of splitting something open.