How does the verb cleave contrast with its synonyms?
Some common synonyms of cleave are adhere, cling, cohere, and stick. While all these words mean "to become closely attached," cleave stresses strength of attachment.
the wet shirt cleaved to his back
When might adhere be a better fit than cleave?
The words adhere and cleave can be used in similar contexts, but adhere is often interchangeable with stick but sometimes implies a growing together.
antibodies adhering to a virus
When is it sensible to use cling instead of cleave?
The meanings of cling and cleave largely overlap; however, cling implies attachment by hanging on with arms or tendrils.
clinging to a capsized boat
When could cohere be used to replace cleave?
The words cohere and cleave are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, cohere suggests a sticking together of parts so that they form a unified mass.
eggs will make the mixture cohere
Where would stick be a reasonable alternative to cleave?
While in some cases nearly identical to cleave, stick implies attachment by affixing or by being glued together.
Avoid using sponges or towels, as shards can cling to them, creating a safety hazard.
Jolie Kerr,
Better Homes & Gardens,
28 Dec. 2024
Other passengers were clinging to the stern paddle to escape the roaring flames before the ship's carpenter waded into the river and helped them ashore with the aid of a long pole.
But nothing ever seems to stick, and that's because no experiment has given any hint that quarks and leptons are composite particles.
Paul Sutter,
Space.com,
24 Dec. 2024
Barton appears to enjoy juxtaposing the banality of Helen’s life as a wife and mother—flawlessly hosting her husband’s holiday work party, sticking jewels on a crown for a Nativity costume—with the extravagant action of her secret life.
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.
Share