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

In many Orthodox Jewish settings, by contrast, including the vast Haredi world, strict adherence to Torah and Jewish law has kept many closeted or unable to live openly in synagogue settings. —Yonat Shimron, Sun Sentinel, 6 Feb. 2025

Strict adherence to those requirements prevents the FBI from abusing its power. —Barbara McQuade, TIME, 31 Jan. 2025

But for the most part, there was some adherence to the idea that this was spiritually a local event, even as an appeal was being made to the rest of the country to feel the pain of affected Southern Californians and generously give. —Chris Willman, Variety, 31 Jan. 2025

Certification Programs: Offering individual and organizational credentials to validate adherence to best practices. —Rhea Wessel, Forbes, 23 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