verb Uncommon

cling

KLIHNG

Cling (verb) means to hold on tightly to something so as not to fall or be separated. Example: “The toddler clung to her mother's leg at the school gate.”

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."

"He clung to the railing as the boat rocked."

To stick closely to a surface, especially of fabric or film.

"The wet shirt clung to his back in the heat."

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."

How to use cling

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo hold on tightly, physically or emotionally, and not let go.

Common pairings

cling to hope cling tightly clothes cling to the skin

Word forms

clung past tense, clinged past tense, clong past tense, clinged past tense, clings plural, clings singular, clings singular

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Etymology

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

Origin: Old English

Synonyms

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stick hang adhere cleave cohere

Related words

fall staff focus agree stick fix hang bond

Rhymes for cling

ing king wing sing ring ping bing ming zing ding Jing ting

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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.

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