Synonyms of adhesive

adhesive 1 of 2

adjective

ad-ˈhē-siv 

as in sticky

tending to adhere to objects upon contact

walked barefoot through adhesive, clayey mud

Synonyms & Similar Words

• sticky
• adherent
• gummy
• tacky
• glutinous
• tenacious
• gluey
• viscid
• clingy
• viscous
• gelatinous
• gooey
• syrupy
• ropy
• tarry
• pitchy

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• nonviscous
• nonadhesive

adhesive

2 of 2

noun

as in glue

a substance used to stick things together

prefers postage stamps coated with adhesive so that she doesn't have to do any licking

Synonyms & Similar Words

• glue
• cement
• size
• epoxy
• bond
• mucilage
• epoxy resin
• gum
• water glass
• superglue
• paste
• goo
• library paste
• dope

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of adhesive

Adjective

If the lining is glued into the bag, never saturate it, because moisture could loosen the adhesive and migrate to the exterior, requiring professional repairs. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 17 Aug. 2026

From sticky tack to adhesive strips, there are plenty of tried-and-true renter-friendly ways to hang your art. — Amelia Mularz, Architectural Digest, 14 Aug. 2026

Noun

An investigation found that a can of spray adhesive fell into a textile dryer and heat from the dryer caused the can to explode and catch fire, according to the release. — Erik S. Hanley, jsonline.com, 20 Aug. 2026

With other phones, even something simple like replacing an aging battery often requires melting adhesive, prying apart fragile glass panels, and decoupling cables. — Ryan Whitwam, ArsTechnica, 18 Aug. 2026