Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act, action, or quality of sticking firmly to something: This refers to the physical property of one surface clinging to another.
   • Faithful attachment or commitment to a person, cause, belief, or set of rules: This refers to a steady devotion or loyalty, often involving consistent support or obedience.

Examples of Usage

• Physical Sticking:

  • The adherence of the decal to the window was perfect.
  • The tape's strong adherence made it difficult to remove.

• Loyalty or Steadfastness:

  • Her strict adherence to the company's safety protocols prevented an accident.
  • The soldier was praised for his unwavering adherence to his oath.

Advanced Usage

• "In adherence to": In accordance with; following a rule, principle, or agreement.
  • The policy was changed in adherence to the new regulations.
• "Adherence to the letter (of the law/rule)": Following rules or instructions exactly, with great precision.
  • The inspector demanded adherence to the letter of the building code.

Variants and Related Words

• Adhere (verb): To stick firmly; to believe in and follow the practices of.
  • The wet cloth will adhere to the glass.
  • He adheres to a strict daily routine.
• Adherent (noun/adjective):
  • (Noun) A supporter or follower.

    • She is an adherent of the classical school of economics.
  • (Adjective) Sticking or clinging.

    • The adherent qualities of the substance were tested.
• Adhesive (noun/adjective):
  • (Noun) A substance used for sticking objects together.

    • Use a strong adhesive for this repair.
  • (Adjective) Having the property of sticking.

    • The adhesive strip held the bandage in place.

Synonyms

• For physical sticking: Adhesion, cohesion, stickiness, cling.
• For loyalty: Devotion, fidelity, allegiance, commitment, steadfastness, obedience, conformity.

Related Phrases

• "Strict adherence": Very careful and exact obedience or conformity.
  • Strict adherence to the recipe is essential for this dish.
• "Blind adherence": Unquestioning or uncritical loyalty or obedience.
  • The cult leader demanded blind adherence from his followers.

Related Idioms

• "Toe the line": To conform strictly to a rule or policy. (This idiom is conceptually related to "adherence" in terms of obedience).
  • Employees are expected to toe the line on the new dress code.

Noun

1. the property of sticking together (as of glue and wood) or the joining of surfaces of different composition
   • the mutual adhesiveness of cells
   • a heated hydraulic press was required for adhesion
2. faithful support for a cause or political party or religion
   • attachment to a formal agenda
   • adherence to a fat-free diet
   • the adhesion of Seville was decisive