Definition

1. Noun:
   • (Physics) The intermolecular force that holds together the molecules in a solid or liquid: This refers to the attractive force between like molecules within a substance, which is responsible for its physical state and properties like surface tension.
   • (Botany) The process in some plants of parts growing together that are usually separate: This describes a developmental phenomenon where plant structures, such as petals, fuse together.
   • The state of cohering or sticking together: The general quality of unity, connection, or logical consistency among parts of a whole, such as in a group, argument, or piece of writing.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Physics):

  • Surface tension in water is a result of its strong cohesion.
  • The cohesion between the metal's molecules gives it its strength.

• Noun (Botany):

  • The cohesion of petals in that flower species creates a unique tubular shape.

• Noun (State of Unity):

  • The team's success depends on the cohesion among its members.
  • A good essay must have both clarity and cohesion.

Advanced Usage

• "Social cohesion": Refers to the bonds and sense of solidarity that bring people together in a society.

  • The community project aimed to improve social cohesion in the neighborhood.

• "Lack of cohesion": Used to describe a situation where parts are disconnected or inconsistent.

  • The report's argument suffered from a lack of cohesion.

Variants and Related Words

• Cohesive (adj): Having the property of sticking together; characterized by unity.

  • The coach worked to build a cohesive team.

• Cohere (verb): To stick together; to be united; to be logically consistent.

  • The various plotlines in the novel cohere into a satisfying whole.

Synonyms

• Unity: The state of being united or joined as a whole.
• Solidarity: Unity or agreement of feeling or action, especially among individuals with a common interest.
• Coherence: The quality of being logical and consistent (often used for ideas or communication).

Antonyms

• Disunity: Lack of unity or agreement.
• Fragmentation: The process or state of breaking into fragments or disjointed parts.
• Incoherence: Lack of logical connection or consistency.

Noun

1. (physics) the intermolecular force that holds together the molecules in a solid or liquid
2. (botany) the process in some plants of parts growing together that are usually separate (such as petals)
3. the state of cohering or sticking together