Definition

Adjective: 1. Securely attached or fastened with an adhesive substance, typically glue or paste: Describes something that is physically bonded to another surface using an adhesive. 2. Fixed or held in place as if by glue; unable or unwilling to move: Describes a person or thing that remains in one position, often due to intense focus, interest, or attachment.

Usage

The adjective "glued" is used to describe a state of being firmly attached, either literally or figuratively. It often implies a strong, sometimes unbreakable, connection or fixation.

Examples

• Literal Attachment:

  • The label was glued to the jar so tightly it couldn't be removed.
  • She carefully glued the broken pieces of the vase back together.

• Figurative Fixation (unable/unwilling to move):

  • The children were glued to the television screen during the cartoon.
  • He stayed glued to his desk, working on the report all night.

Advanced Usage

• "to be glued to something": This is the most common figurative construction. It means to be completely focused on or attached to something, such as a screen, book, or person.
  • The audience was glued to their seats during the thrilling performance.
  • She was glued to her phone, scrolling through social media.

Variants and Related Words

• Glue (n/v): The adhesive substance itself (noun) or the act of applying it (verb).

  • Noun: I need strong glue for this project.
  • Verb: You must glue these parts carefully.

• Gluey (adj): Having a sticky, glue-like quality.

  • The gluey substance was hard to wash off.

Synonyms

• Adhered: Stuck firmly to a surface.
• Attached: Fastened or joined.
• Fixed: Securely placed or stationed.
• Riveted: Figuratively, fixed with intense attention.
• Transfixed: Rendered motionless with awe, terror, or amazement.

Antonyms

• Detached: Not connected or attached.
• Loose: Not firmly or tightly fixed in place.
• Unfixed: Not secured or made stable.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• Glued to the spot: Unable to move because of fear, shock, or surprise.
  • When she saw the spider, she was glued to the spot.

Adjective

1. affixed or as if affixed with glue or paste
   • he stayed glued to one spot
   • pieces of pasted paper