Glue Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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glue
[ɡluː ]
Definitions
adhesive substance
Glue is a sticky substance used for joining things together. It is commonly made from natural or synthetic materials such as animal collagen, plant starch, or synthetic resins.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| glue |
Commonly used in everyday situations, especially in arts, crafts, and minor repairs. It can be liquid or solid and is often used for paper, wood, and lightweight materials.
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| adhesive |
A more technical term often used in industrial, packaging, and manufacturing contexts. It refers to substances that can stick to surfaces firmly and include tapes, glues, and pastes.
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| bond |
Used in more formal or technical contexts to describe the connection created by adhesives. It can refer to both physical and chemical binding and is often used in scientific, engineering, and professional settings.
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| cement |
Often used in building and construction contexts. It refers to a substance that hardens to act as a binding agent, commonly used for masonry, concrete, and large-scale structural projects.
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Examples of usage
- Please use glue to stick the pieces together.
- The glue dried quickly, forming a strong bond between the surfaces.
informal term for a strong bond or connection
In informal contexts, glue can also refer to a strong bond or connection between people or things.
Synonyms
bond, connection, link.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| glue |
Used for sticky substances that join things together physically.
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| bond |
Describes a strong relationship or connection, often emotional or chemical.
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| connection |
Refers to a relationship between people, concepts, or things, often more abstract than 'link'.
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| link |
Used for a direct relationship or association between objects, ideas, or events, often functional or causal.
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Examples of usage
- Their friendship was like glue, keeping them together through thick and thin.
- The shared experience of travel created a glue that bonded the group.
to join or fasten with glue
To glue means to join or fasten things together using adhesive. It is a common method for repairing broken items or creating crafts.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| glue |
Typically used when talking about using a viscous substance to join materials like paper or wood. Commonly heard in arts and crafts, school projects, or DIY activities.
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| adhere |
Often used in a more formal or technical context, especially in manufacturing or science. It can also mean to stick firmly to principles or rules.
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| stick |
Used in everyday language to describe fastening something with an adhesive or by pressing against a surface. It can also metaphorically mean to keep with something, like a plan or idea. It can sometimes have a negative tone if implying stubbornness.
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| attach |
Commonly used when adding or fastening one thing to another in a general sense. It can be about physical objects or even abstract concepts like attaching importance.
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Examples of usage
- She glued the pieces of the vase back together.
- He glued the poster to the wall using tape.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The use of glue dates back to ancient Egypt, where natural substances like animal skins and plant resins were used to make it.
- In the 18th century, the first commercial glue was made from animal hides, which paved the way for modern adhesives.
- In the 20th century, synthetic glues were developed, allowing for stronger bonds and quicker drying times.
Science
- Glue works by creating a bond when it dries, which can occur through evaporation or chemical reactions.
- Different types of glue include PVA (polyvinyl acetate) for crafts and superglue (cyanoacrylate) for quick fixes, showcasing diverse chemical properties.
- Moisture content can affect how well glue adheres; understanding this principle helps in choosing the right adhesive for various projects.
Art & Crafts
- In arts and crafts, glue is a fundamental tool, supporting everything from paper crafts to woodworking.
- Craftsmen often use specialty glues, such as wood glue or epoxy, which have specific qualities tailored for different materials.
- There are also edible glues, like royal icing, used in cake decorating, illustrating the versatility of adhesive substances.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'glue holding us together' is often used in stories and movies to describe characters or elements that unite people.
- Glue got a humorous spotlight in the popular children's song 'Sticky Sticky Bubble Gum,' emphasizing its fun and playful nature.
- Crafting Glues are often referenced in DIY shows and web series, revealing the creativity they can inspire in everyday life.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, glue symbolizes unity and connection, often used metaphorically in discussions about relationships.
- Traditional crafts in various cultures use natural glues derived from plants, showing the resourcefulness of communities throughout history.
- The act of gluing things together in a community can symbolize collaboration and teamwork, reinforcing social bonds.
Origin of 'glue'
The word 'glue' has its origins in Middle English 'glew', which in turn comes from Old French 'gleu', meaning 'amber'. The use of adhesive substances for joining things together dates back to ancient times, with early civilizations using natural materials like tree sap and beeswax. Over time, the production and variety of glues have evolved, leading to the diverse range of adhesives available today.