cling 1 of 2

as in adhesion
a physical sticking to as if by glue for certain types of materials that plastic wrap has very little cling

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

cling

2 of 2

verb

as in to adhere
to hold to something firmly as if by adhesion a dozen magnets clinging to the refrigerator

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb cling contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of cling are adhere, cleave, cohere, and stick. While all these words mean "to become closely attached," cling implies attachment by hanging on with arms or tendrils.

clinging to a capsized boat

When can adhere be used instead of cling?

The words adhere and cling can be used in similar contexts, but adhere is often interchangeable with stick but sometimes implies a growing together.

antibodies adhering to a virus

In what contexts can cleave take the place of cling?

While in some cases nearly identical to cling, cleave stresses strength of attachment.

the wet shirt cleaved to his back

When could cohere be used to replace cling?

While the synonyms cohere and cling are close in meaning, cohere suggests a sticking together of parts so that they form a unified mass.

eggs will make the mixture cohere

Where would stick be a reasonable alternative to cling?

In some situations, the words stick and cling are roughly equivalent. However, stick implies attachment by affixing or by being glued together.

couldn't get the label to stick

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of cling
Noun
Those attending the April 25 event can pick up yard signs, window clings and bumper stickers with the 988 number, according to the press release. Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2025 To simplify the cling wrap experience, start with the box. Cody Godwin, USA TODAY, 24 Mar. 2025
Verb
Marinate the lamb for as short as 10 minutes or as long as 10 hours; either way, the flavors clinging to the exterior of the meat are enhanced by a quick sear in a very hot pan. The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 July 2025 Stories came in about people clinging to attic rafters with grandchildren as the water rose before receding at the last second; a friend lost his car to the surging water; each new face held a uniquely awful tale. Matthew Odam, Austin American Statesman, 15 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for cling
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cling
Noun
  • Gorges has also been studying the seeds' cellulose nano fibers, which—depending on the level of hydration—can exhibit either high or low friction or adhesion.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 8 July 2025
  • Many of the affected genes have roles in key processes such as cell adhesion and migration, which are known to respond to mechanical forces.
    Simon Makin, Scientific American, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • That means all organizations should take note of this deadline and adhere if possible.
    Zak Doffman, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
  • Authorities urged the public to monitor updates and adhere strictly to safety instructions issued during this period.
    Barney Henderson, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 June 2025
Noun
  • Iraq has witnessed similar deadly incidents in the past, often attributed to a lack of adherence to civil defense regulations, and poor safety measures and electrical short circuits.
    Laura Sharman, CNN Money, 17 July 2025
  • That’s not to say those outcomes cannot be challenged, but they must be challenged within those electoral and legal systems, in adherence to the U.S. Constitution.
    St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Twin Cities, 16 July 2025
Verb
  • One of those sticking points has been a mammoth bond issue that is being pitched to voters in the November election.
    John Aguilar, Denver Post, 22 July 2025
  • Thompson will need to prove the most in this area to stick, as well.
    Joe Buscaglia, New York Times, 11 July 2025
Noun
  • Mixed martial arts competitor Lukas has just handily defeated his opponent and celebrates with his wife, child and friends backstage, setting the scene for a nimble combination of communal bonding and looming horrors.
    Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 18 July 2025
  • Filmed during their vacation in Greece, the video captured a lighthearted bonding session between the mother-daughter duo, with Jenner allowing Stormi to experiment with makeup.
    Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Cling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cling. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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