Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Clung Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🤲
Add to dictionary

clung

[klʌŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical attachment

The verb 'clung' is the past tense of 'cling'. It signifies holding on tightly to someone or something. This can be in a literal sense, where a person may cling to a surface or object for support, or in a more figurative sense, representing attachment or emotional dependence. The term often conveys a sense of urgency or desperation in the manner of holding on tightly.

Synonyms

attached, gripped, held, stuck.

Examples of usage

  • The child clung to his mother's leg.
  • She clung to the edge of the cliff as the wind howled.
  • After the news, he clung to hope.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'clung'

The word 'cling' has its origins in the Old English 'clynge', which means 'to adhere closely or to stick to'. It is related to the Middle Dutch 'clingen' and the Old Norse 'klinga'. The usage of 'cling' has been present in the English language since at least the 14th century. Over time, it has evolved to encompass both physical and metaphorical meanings, reflecting the dual nature of attachment in various contexts. Whether describing a physical grasp or an emotional bond, the word conveys a sense of closeness and dependency. In literature and everyday speech, 'clung' evokes powerful imagery of attachment, often highlighting moments of intimacy, desperation, or commitment.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,353, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.