Adhesive: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in technical or formal contexts when referring to substances that stick or hold surfaces together.

• The adhesive used in the construction was very strong
• This adhesive works well for plastics and metals

Commonly used in everyday language and household settings, usually refers to substances used to stick paper, wood, or small objects.

• I used glue to fix the broken vase
• Craft projects usually involve a lot of glue

Often used to describe a connection that holds different things together, can be both literal (physical connection) or figurative (emotional connection).

• There is a strong bond between the two metal plates
• The bond between friends can last a lifetime

Typically used in the context of construction or architectural materials. Can also mean to establish firmly (idea, relationship) in a figurative sense.

• We need to buy more cement for the construction project
• The agreement cemented the partnership between the two companies

Used when referring to materials or substances that are designed to stick things together.

• The adhesive on this tape is very strong
• She used an adhesive to fix the broken vase

Describes surfaces or materials that are tacky and somewhat difficult to touch because they adhere to objects easily.

• The table was sticky from the spilled juice
• I don't like the sticky feeling of this candy

Usually has a negative connotation and is used to describe someone who stays very close to someone else and is dependent on them emotionally.

• Her boyfriend is so clingy; he never leaves her alone
• The child was clingy on his first day at school

Used to describe something that feels slightly adhesive to touch or to describe something that is in poor taste (negative connotation).

• The paint is still tacky; don't touch it yet
• The decorations were tacky and cheap-looking