adherence

noun

ad·​her·​ence ad-ˈhir-ən(t)s 

əd-

1

: the act, action, or quality of adhering

adherence of paint to wood

2

: steady or faithful attachment : fidelity

adherence to a political party

Synonyms

• adhesion
• bonding
• cling

Examples of adherence in a Sentence

you'd think these refrigerator magnets would have better adherence—they fall off every time I open the door

adherence to convention requires that the couple send out formal wedding invitations

Recent Examples on the Web

By ensuring consistent adherence to legal frameworks, the bill promotes accountability and strengthens enforcement across these sectors. —Chris Felder, Sun Sentinel, 30 Jan. 2025

Prosecutors are tasked with ensuring adherence to these policies, with significant implications for state and local jurisdictions resistant to federal immigration mandates. —Raul A. Reyes, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025

Rosenfeld reiterated the defense team’s stance that Stubblefield is being denied freedom because of adherence to protocol that wasn’t meant for his unique circumstances in the wake of the conviction reversal. —Caelyn Pender, The Mercury News, 18 Jan. 2025

Psoriasis may also be more severe among Asians because the group tends to have a lower adherence to treatment (not taking or doing treatments as prescribed). —Sayaka Blickenderfer, Phd, Health, 18 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Anglo-French adherance, aerdaunce, aherdance "act of adhering, faction, supporters," borrowed from Medieval Latin adhaerentia, going back to Late Latin, "act of adhering," derivative of Latin adhaerent-, adhaerens, present participle of adhaerēre "to adhere"

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

adherence

noun

ad·​her·​ence ad-ˈhir-ən(t)s 

əd-

1

: the action or quality of adhering

2

: steady or faithful attachment

adherence to the truth