adhesion - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
adhesion Word Meanings
- the process of sticking or attaching to a surface
- a state where two objects are held together
- the bond formed between different materials
adhesion Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
adhesion Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ədˈhiː.ʒən/
US
/ædˈhiː.ʒən/
adhesion Word Etymology
Adhesion is derived from the Latin 'adhaesio', where 'ad-' means 'to' and 'haesio' means 'to stick'. It then transitioned through Old French before entering English. Picture two hands sticking together, symbolizing how things can bond or connect firmly.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Adhesion is the process by which two surfaces are held together by attractive forces at the interface. It can refer to natural sticking, as in the way gecko feet cling to walls, or to engineered bonding, such as glue, tape, or medical adhesives that join tissue or devices. In materials science, adhesion depends on surface roughness, cleanliness, and the chemical compatibility of the adherents; poor adhesion leads to peeling or delamination. The term also covers the bond that forms between different materials, for example a coating that adheres to a substrate, or the way cells attach to a substrate in biology. Understanding adhesion helps design durable products and safe medical procedures.
Usage Reminders
- Use adhesion to describe surface bonding, not internal cohesion; avoid using it for everyday stickiness; rely on common collocations like adhesion to a surface, adhesion strength, and poor adhesion. When talking biology, specify cell adhesion or tissue adhesion. Distinguish adhesion from adhesive (the substance) and from cohesive forces inside a material. In technical writing, describe methods that improve adhesion, or conditions that reduce adhesion. Be clear whether you mean temporary or permanent adhesion.
Common Misconceptions
- Adhesion means stickiness in everyday talk; it does not reference internal cohesion.
- Adhesion always involves a single bond; in reality it can be due to many weak interactions at the interface.
- Adhesion and adhesive are the same thing; adhesive is the substance, adhesion is the bond.
- A surface can have good adhesion regardless of cleanliness or roughness; in fact, surface prep often matters most.
- Adhesion is only a property of liquids or glues; solids and biological systems also exhibit adhesion.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short): Adhesion emphasizes the bond at a surface interface; learners often confuse it with cohesion (within a material) or with the sticky feeling of objects.
Learning Tips
- Study common collocations: adhesion to a surface, adhesion strength, strong/weak adhesion.
- Compare adhesion with cohesion to avoid confusion.
- Use real-world contexts: coatings, tissues, gecko-inspired adhesion.
- Differentiate adhesive (the substance) from adhesion (the bond).
- Practice both natural and engineered contexts to broaden understanding.
- Remember: surface prep can dramatically change adhesion strength.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'adhesion'?
A.The state of sticking or being attached
B.An act of heating meat
C.A type of fabric
D.A musical composition
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'adhesion' correctly?
A.The adhesion in the kitchen was delicious.
B.He showed great adhesion to his favorite novel.
C.The adhesion of paint to the canvas is crucial for artwork.
D.She felt a strong adhesion towards the mountain.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'adhesion'?
A.Separation
B.Bonding
C.Dissolution
D.Repulsion
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'adhesion'?
A.Connection
B.Clinging
C.Detachment
D.Attachment
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where the term 'adhesion' is relevant?
A.When constructing buildings, proper adhesion of materials ensures strength and durability.
B.The flowers in the garden were vibrant and colorful.
C.When teaching a student how to cook, it's important to follow the recipe closely.
D.The puppy played happily in the yard with its toys.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App