cling

5 synonyms and 2 antonyms for cling, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Verb — To hold on tightly to something so as not to fall or be separated.

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

stick hang

Less common

Still standard English, but they carry more weight.

adhere

Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

cleave cohere

Synonyms by Meaning

1. verb

To hold on tightly to something so as not to fall or be separated.

“The toddler clung to her mother's leg at the school gate.”

stick hang adhere cleave cohere

Opposites

drop

2. verb

To remain emotionally attached to a person, belief, or hope, often more than is healthy.

“She clung to the idea that he might still change.”

Opposites

abandon

How to use cling

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

cling to hope cling tightly clothes cling to the skin

Etymology

From Old English clingan, "to adhere" or "hold fast," from an old Germanic root also seen in Danish klynge, "to cluster."

Full origin of cling →

Frequently asked questions

What does “cling” mean?

The word “cling” means to hold on tightly to something so as not to fall or be separated. In plain terms, to hold on tightly, physically or emotionally, and not let go.

How do you pronounce “cling”?

“Cling” is pronounced KLIHNG (/ˈklɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “cling” in a sentence?

Here is “cling” used in a sentence: “The toddler clung to her mother's leg at the school gate.”

What part of speech is “cling”?

“Cling” is a verb.

Where does the word “cling” come from?

The word “cling” comes from Old English. From Old English clingan, "to adhere" or "hold fast," from an old Germanic root also seen in Danish klynge, "to cluster.".

Is “cling” a common word?

“Cling” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “cling” have?

“Cling” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to hold on tightly to something so as not to fall or be separated.

People also searched

drop stick hang abandon adhere cleave cohere

Nearby words

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