adhesive
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ədˈhiːsɪv/
KK: /ədˈhiv/
adjective
Definition
Having the quality of sticking to a surface or object; capable of holding things together.
Example
The adhesive tape worked perfectly to fix the broken vase.
Conversation
I bought some new adhesive tape for our project.
Oh nice! Is it strong enough to hold everything together?
Yeah, it’s supposed to be really adhesive and durable.
Great! That will definitely make our work easier.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sticky
tacky
gluey
Antonyms
slippery
loose
detached
noun
Definition
A material that helps stick things together, like glue or tape.
Example
The carpenter used a strong adhesive to bond the pieces of wood together.
Conversation
I need to buy some adhesive for my art project.
What kind of project are you working on?
I'm making a collage, so I need something strong.
Root Explanation
Adhesive → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "haerere" (meaning to stick or cling). The word describes a substance that is meant to stick to surfaces or materials.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is meant to 'stick' ('haerere') to something else ('ad-'), which is why adhesive refers to a sticky substance.
Visually Confused Words
unadhesive
inadhesive
nonadhesive