clingy

clingy

The toddler is clingy and won't let go of his mother's leg.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Tending to stick or adhere: "clingy" describes something that sticks or clings to a surface or to the body, often in a way that is noticeable or uncomfortable.
    • Emotionally dependent: In a social or relational context, "clingy" describes a person who is overly dependent or attached to someone else, requiring constant attention or reassurance.
Usage Examples

  • Physical sense:

    • The wet shirt felt clingy against her skin. (The shirt stuck to her body because of moisture.)
    • The mud was so clingy that it took hours to clean off my boots. (The mud adhered strongly to the boots.)

  • Emotional sense:

    • He became too clingy after just two dates, calling her every hour. (He was overly attached and demanding of her attention.)
    • Some puppies are more clingy than others, following their owners everywhere. (Some puppies show excessive dependence on their owners.)
Advanced Usage

  • "clingy fabric": a material that tends to stick to the body, such as certain synthetic textiles.

    • She avoided wearing clingy dresses in humid weather. (She avoided dresses that would stick to her skin.)

  • "clingy relationship": a relationship where one partner is emotionally needy or possessive.

    • The therapist advised her to set boundaries with her clingy boyfriend. (The boyfriend's dependence was causing strain.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Cling (verb): to hold on tightly to something or someone.

    • The child clung to her mother's hand. (The child held tightly.)

  • Clinginess (noun): the quality of being clingy, either physically or emotionally.

    • His clinginess annoyed his friends. (His tendency to be overly attached was irritating.)

  • Clinging (adjective): another form of "clingy," often used to describe persistent adherence.

    • The clinging vines covered the wall. (The vines stuck firmly.)
Synonyms
  • Adhesive: something that sticks easily; often used for physical materials.
  • Needy: (in emotional sense) requiring excessive attention or affection.
  • Sticky: physically tending to adhere to surfaces.
Related Idioms

  • "Cling like a limpet": to hold on very tightly or be very persistent in attachment.

    • He clung like a limpet to his job, refusing to retire. (He held on stubbornly.)

  • "Cling to hope": to continue to believe in something despite difficulties.

    • She clung to hope that the lost cat would return. (She maintained hope persistently.)
Phrasal Verbs

  • Cling on: to hold onto something tightly.

    • The climber clung on to the rock face. (He held tightly to avoid falling.)

  • Cling to: to continue to believe in or hold onto something.

    • He clung to the idea that things would improve. (He maintained his belief stubbornly.)