I. ˈkliŋ intransitive verb
( clung ˈkləŋ ; cling·ing )
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English clingan; akin to Old High German klunga tangled ball of thread
Date: before 12th century
1.
a. : to hold together
b. : to adhere as if glued firmly
c. : to hold or hold on tightly or tenaciously
2.
a. : to have a strong emotional attachment or dependence
he clung to his friends for support
b. : to remain or linger as if resisting complete dissipation or dispersal
the odor clung to the room for hours
Synonyms: see stick
• cling·er ˈkliŋ-ər noun
• clingy ˈkliŋ-ē adjective
II. noun
Date: circa 1625
: an act or instance of clinging : adherence