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Meaning & use

clingy

adjective·Everydaydisapproving

Last updated

UK/ˈklɪŋi/
US/ˈklɪŋi/
Usage warning: this word is disapproving. It shows a negative opinion, so take care with who and what you use it about.

Meanings

  1. adjectivecomparabledisapproving

    Excessively dependent on or attached to someone, so that the person feels pressured or annoyed.

    Grammar: Comparable: clingier, clingiest; often modified by too or so.

    Patterns

    • a clingy partner
    • clingy toddler
    • get clingy
    • clingy behavior

    Her new partner seemed sweet at first but soon became clingy.

    The toddler gets clingy when strangers visit.

    He apologized for his clingy behavior after the argument.

  2. adjectivecomparable

    Fitting tightly against the body and tending to stick to the skin.

    Grammar: Describes fabric or clothes; more descriptive than critical.

    Patterns

    • a clingy dress
    • clingy fabric

    She chose a less clingy fabric for the summer dress.

    The clingy top was uncomfortable in the heat.

Word forms

comparativeclingier
superlativeclingiest

Common combinations

clingy partner
A clingy partner may text constantly for reassurance.
clingy toddler
The clingy toddler refused to leave her mother's side.
get clingy
Puppies often get clingy during thunderstorms.
clingy fabric
Choose breathable lining so the dress is not clingy.
too clingy
He admitted he had been too clingy after the move.

Synonyms and how they differ

needy
Focuses on constant need for attention; clingy stresses sticking physically or emotionally close.
dependent
Neutral about relying on others; clingy adds excess and disapproval.
possessive
Implies controlling ownership; clingy is more about fear of separation.
attached
Can be healthy and positive; clingy is almost always excessive.

Opposites

independentdetached

Word family

cling verb
To hold on tightly; clung is the irregular past tense.
clinging adjective
Holding close or sticking; similar to clingy in sense 2.
clinginess noun
The quality of being excessively attached.

Commonly confused: clingy or cliquey? clingy or cloying?

clingy vs cliquey

Cliquey means exclusive toward a small group; clingy means overly attached.

clingy vs cloying

Cloying means sickly sweet or excessive; clingy describes attachment or fit.

Practice

Which sentence uses clingy with a critical tone?

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