CLINGING Synonyms: 14 Similar and Opposite Words

clinging

verb

present participle of cling

as in adhering

to hold to something firmly as if by adhesion a dozen magnets clinging to the refrigerator

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of clinging James Pantemis stopped two shots for Portland (9-12-5), which is clinging to the ninth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference. — ABC News, 20 Sep. 2026 In the eighth inning, with the Royals clinging to a 3-2 lead in rainy conditions at PNC Park, things looked good for KC. — Kansas City Star, 20 Sep. 2026 For that all-important hydration, look for moisture magnets like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, along with emollients such as squalane, which help concealer glide over dry areas instead of clinging to them. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 18 Sep. 2026 This dress strikes the ideal balance between comfort and a flattering fit, with a roomy silhouette that drapes beautifully without clinging. — Jacquelyn McGilvray, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2026 This hysterical comedy by writer-director Jesse Eisenberg has deep affection for artists clinging to the bottom rung of showbiz. — Joshua Rothkopf, Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 2026 Notre Dame was clinging to a three-point lead in the second quarter. — Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 18 Sep. 2026 Their next two opponents after the Phillies are the Chicago Cubs, who are a game behind the top NL Wild Card spot, and the Houston Astros clinging to a three-game lead in the AL West. — Jesús Cano, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026 Honey, Zingbot does not know Lala then, baby, because there is no clinging. — Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Sep. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for clinging

Verb

Repeat guests begin wrapping their feet with tape and adhering gel pads to prevent blisters.

— Johanna Wolfe, Robb Report, 22 Aug. 2026
Unlike in Cutud, participants are mostly female faith healers adhering not to vows but to mystic trances and possession.

— H.M.A. Leow, JSTOR Daily, 10 July 2026

Definition of adhering

Verb

Most leaders are sticking the initial demands contained in the African Union’s position on the issue adopted in 2005, which includes a demand for at least two permanent seats on the Security Council.

— Mogomotsi Magome, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026
Most leaders are sticking the initial demands contained in the African Union's position on the issue adopted in 2005, which includes a demand for at least two permanent seats on the Security Council.

— ABC News, ABC News, 24 Sep. 2026

Definition of sticking

Browse Nearby Words

cling

clinging

clinging (to)

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“Clinging.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/clinging. Accessed 1 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of clinging

verb

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