Synonyms of clingy

clingy

adjective

ˈkliŋ-ē 

as in adhesive

tending to adhere to objects upon contact

it took forever to clean up the clingy Styrofoam pellets that had been used as packing material for the lamp

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• nonviscous
• nonadhesive

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of clingy

Heavy fabrics, clingy materials, and tight silhouettes only make hot days feel even hotter — but light, breezy dresses make cool and easy outfits. — Aashna Gheewalla, PEOPLE, 5 July 2026

Armand tries on personalities — clingy boyfriend, conniving mastermind — and flocks to love interests like new rock star Lestat goes through vats of body glitter. — Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 1 July 2026

Instead of anything too clingy or tailored, opt for a more bohemian-style approach with flowy wrap dresses, retro aviator shades, and faux leather sandals that can tackle Paris’ cobblestone streets but still look sleek enough for a beach club in Cannes or Saint-Tropez. — Lane Nieset, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2026

This cleaner sprays on and foams up to lift and suspend clingy particulates. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 16 June 2026