Meaning & Definition of word "Adhesive"

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    Adhesive

    /əˈdhiːsɪv/

    noun:

    • 1. A substance used for sticking objects or materials together.
      • Example: The carpenter used a strong adhesive to bond the pieces of wood.
    • 2. A material that promotes adhesion, such as glue or paste.
      • Example: You can find this adhesive in the craft aisle of the store.

    adjective:

    • 1. Having the ability to stick to surfaces.
      • Example: The adhesive tape worked perfectly for sealing the package.
    • 2. Pertaining to a substance that causes adhesion.
      • Example: The adhesive properties of this glue make it ideal for repair work.

    Etymology

    from Latin 'adhesivus', from 'adhaerere' meaning 'to stick to'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    adhesive bandage:

    A small bandage sticky on one side used for protecting wounds.

    adhesive tape:

    A tape with a sticky surface used for binding or attaching things.

    pressure-sensitive adhesive:

    An adhesive that bonds substrates without the need for heat or solvents.

    Related Words

    adhesion:

    The tendency of dissimilar particles or surfaces to cling to one another.

    cohesion:

    The action or property of like molecules sticking together.

    bonding:

    The process of joining two or more materials together.

    Slang Meanings of adhesive

    Meaning: Sticky stuff

    Example Sentence: I need some sticky stuff to fix this.

    Meaning: Glue

    Example Sentence: Pass me the glue for this project.