Cling

Pronunciation: /klɪŋ/

Definitions of cling

verb to hold on tightly or adhere closely to something

Example Sentences

A1 The baby clings to their mother for comfort.

A2 The wet clothes clung to her skin as she tried to remove them.

B1 She clung to the hope that everything would turn out okay in the end.

B2 The memories of their time together still cling to him, years later.

C1 Despite the challenges, she clung to her belief in a better future.

C2 The scent of her perfume still clings to his clothes, reminding him of her presence.

Examples of cling in a Sentence

formal The child clung to his mother's hand as they crossed the busy street.

informal I always cling to my favorite blanket when I'm feeling anxious.

slang She's always clinging onto her boyfriend whenever we go out.

figurative The memories of that day cling to me like a shadow, never fading away.

Grammatical Forms of cling

• past tense: clung
• plural: clings
• comparative: clinger
• superlative: clingiest
• present tense: clings
• future tense: will cling
• perfect tense: have clung
• continuous tense: is clinging
• singular: cling
• positive degree: cling
• infinitive: to cling
• gerund: clinging
• participle: clung

Origin and Evolution of cling

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Old English

Story behind the word: The word 'cling' originated from the Old English word 'clengan' which meant to adhere closely or stick together.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'cling' has retained its original meaning of sticking closely or adhering, but it has also come to be used metaphorically to describe emotional attachment or dependence.