clingy

adjective

ˈkliŋ-ē 

clingier; clingiest

: having the quality of clinging to someone or something: such as

a

: tending to adhere to a surface upon contact

a clingy plastic wrap

clingy fabrics/clothes

In her clingiest [=tightest-fitting] dress she swings into town and soon has the men howling.

—Peter Travers

b

: tending to stay very close to someone (such as a parent) for emotional support, protection, etc.

a clingy child

Some kids act out or become whiny to get a parent's attention; others become clingy or fearful.

—Leah Hennen

clinginess noun

disliked the fabric's clinginess

Any number of women I interviewed cited clinginess in a boyfriend as a major deal breaker.

—Liza Mundy

Synonyms

• adherent
• adhesive
• gluey
• glutinous
• gummy
• sticky
• tacky
• tenacious
• viscid

Examples of clingy in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

Your child is clingy and resistant to being separated A child who fights being separated from their parents or who has extreme separation anxiety may have an anxious attachment, says Dr. Young. —Taylor Grothe, Parents, 10 Dec. 2024

Known for their calm demeanor and independence, British shorthairs are considered less clingy than other breeds. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2024

The fit stays close to my body without being compressive or clingy, allowing ease of movement when exercising and a flattering profile when hanging out. —The Editors, Outside Online, 16 Oct. 2024

While any dog loves fuss and attention, Darlene Webb from the day care told Newsweek that no other breed even comes close to how clingy GSPs are. —Alyce Collins, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1702, in the meaning defined above