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clingy
01
(of clothes) holding on tightly
Grammatical Information
Composition
Simple
qualitative
Superlative
clingiest
Comparative
clingier
gradable
Examples
The dress was too clingy to wear on a hot day.
02
(of a person) overly dependent on someone else, often seeking constant attention, affection, or reassurance
Slang
What does "clingy" mean in relationship slang?
The term "clingy" describes a person who is overly dependent on another for attention, reassurance, or emotional validation, often seeking constant contact or closeness. The structure comes from the literal idea of "clinging" (holding tightly), used metaphorically for emotional dependence. It is informal and commonly used in relationship contexts, usually as a negative label for behavior perceived as needy or lacking personal independence.
Examples
Her clingy behavior made her friends feel overwhelmed.
Lexical Tree
clingy
cling
