forking

bi·fur·cate Function: verb Inflected Form(s): bi·fur·cat·ed; bi·fur·cat·ing Etymology: Medieval Latin bifurcatus, past participle of bifurcare, from Latin bifurcus two-pronged, from bi- + furca fork Date: 1615 transitive verb : to cause to divide into two branches or parts intransitive verb : to divide into two branches or parts — bi·fur·cate adjective Definition: In a bifurcated divorce, the marriage is terminated, but other issues, such as the division of property, alimony, child support or custody arrangements, are left to be determined at a later date or at trial. Couples pursue a bifurcated divorce when one or both spouses want to terminate the marriage quickly, perhaps so they may remarry, and are willing to resolve other issues at a later date.