adhesive 1 of 2

Definition of adhesivenext
as in sticky
tending to adhere to objects upon contact walked barefoot through adhesive, clayey mud

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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

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Example Sentences

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 adhesive
Adjective
The cEEGrid project at Oldenburg University, in Germany, positions lightweight adhesive electrodes around the ear to create a low-profile version. IEEE Spectrum, 7 Jan. 2026 Posts on Reddit and Facebook show some users needing to replace dozens of devices a year due to monitor malfunctions, adhesive issues with the sensors and accuracy problems. Noelle Harff, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Jan. 2026
Noun
Roorbach was escorted everywhere on set after the adhesive was set. Bryan Alexander, USA Today, 29 Jan. 2026 In automotive use, upholstery is usually bonded to plastic substrates, with foam backing and adhesives. Srishti Gupta, Interesting Engineering, 28 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adhesive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adhesive
Adjective
  • Inspect them for rust and any sticky residue which can be wiped away with WD-40 (which also help keep the hinges lubricated).
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 10 Feb. 2026
  • And inflation, while still sticky, has remained stable in recent months.
    Matt Richardson, CBS News, 9 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Zeis described her daughter as a devoted mother and the glue of her family.
    Quinlan Bentley, Cincinnati Enquirer, 10 Feb. 2026
  • As Toruño leaves the coffee shop, the glue on the nearby posters begins to dry, and pedestrians slow down to read them.
    Yamlek Mojica, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Europe’s regulatory environment and environmental standards could also pose a disproportionate burden for local farmers adherent to the laws, farmers have said.
    Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 9 Jan. 2026
  • This particular kit is well-stocked, featuring classic first aid essentials like non-adherent pads, gauze, triple antibiotic ointment and BZK antiseptic wipes.
    Jessie Quinn, USA Today, 15 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adhesive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adhesive. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

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