Synonyms of adhere

adhere

verb

ad-ˈhir 

as in to cling

to hold to something firmly as if by adhesion

everyone started calling her "Cookie" when she was little and the name adhered

Synonyms & Similar Words

• cling
• stick
• glue
• cleave
• hew
• bind
• fasten
• unite
• fuse
• cohere

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• fall
• loosen
• drop

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb adhere contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adhere are cleave, cling, cohere, and stick. While all these words mean "to become closely attached," adhere is often interchangeable with stick but sometimes implies a growing together.

antibodies adhering to a virus

In what contexts can cleave take the place of adhere?

The synonyms cleave and adhere are sometimes interchangeable, but cleave stresses strength of attachment.

the wet shirt cleaved to his back

When might cling be a better fit than adhere?

In some situations, the words cling and adhere are roughly equivalent. However, cling implies attachment by hanging on with arms or tendrils.

clinging to a capsized boat

When is cohere a more appropriate choice than adhere?

While in some cases nearly identical to adhere, cohere suggests a sticking together of parts so that they form a unified mass.

eggs will make the mixture cohere

When can stick be used instead of adhere?

The words stick and adhere can be used in similar contexts, but stick implies attachment by affixing or by being glued together.

couldn't get the label to stick

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of adhere

In my opinion, CM Moore could adhere more closely to city policy and to the city charter. —Delores Rangel, Sun Sentinel, 13 Feb. 2026

Paint may not adhere well without extensive sanding and priming, which can lead to bubbling and peeling, explains designer Danielle Chiprut. —Asia London Palomba, The Spruce, 5 Feb. 2026

Not only will the paint have trouble adhering and drying, but you will also be forced to work outside in freezing cold conditions for long periods, making the entire experience both uncomfortable and frustrating. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Jan. 2026

Dredge in breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere and shaking off excess. —Chris Morocco, Bon Appetit Magazine, 27 Jan. 2026

Phrases Containing adhere

• adhere (to)