glue

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. something that keeps people or things together in a strong way.

n. a figurative force or shared interest that binds individuals or groups together.

“In many families, the grandmother is the glue that keeps everyone together.”

“Shared values and a common history often act as the social glue that prevents a community from fracturing during times of crisis.”

C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Botany Technical

n. a sticky liquid found on the surface of some plants.

n. a viscid or mucilaginous secretion produced on the surface of certain botanical species.

“The insect got stuck in the sticky glue on the plant's leaves.”

“Certain carnivorous plants produce a specialized glue to trap unsuspecting insects on their glandular hairs.”

A2 · Elementary

v. to join two things using a sticky substance.

v. to join or attach surfaces using an adhesive agent. Transitive use requiring a direct object.

“The children spent the afternoon gluing colorful shapes onto their posters.”

“The technician carefully glued the delicate sensor to the hull of the aircraft to ensure accurate data collection during the flight.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Informal

v. to look at something with all your attention, as if you cannot move away.

v. to fix one's attention or gaze steadily on something. Often used in the passive voice or with reflexive pronouns.

“The kids were glued to the TV while their favorite cartoon was on.”

“During the final minutes of the championship game, every spectator in the stadium was glued to the giant screen awaiting the referee's decision.”