[f. ADHERE + -ING1.] The act or process of sticking, clinging, or remaining attached. (Now mostly gerundial.)
1611. Cotgr., Adhesion, an adhering, cleaving, sticking fast unto.
1681. Manton, Serm. on Ps. cxix. 92, Wks. 1872, VII. 426. The adhering of the soul to the promises is the unquestionable way to obtain a sound peace.
1754. Chatham, Lett. to Nephew, iv. 23. A more serious danger is … the adhering perhaps to false and dangerous notions.
Mod. The limpet has the power of adhering firmly to the rock.
