Adhering

Adhering is the act of sticking to or remaining faithful to something. It can refer to physical attachment, such as a substance clinging to a surface, or to behavioral fidelity, such as following rules, guidelines, or a prescribed plan. The verb comes from the Latin adhaerere, meaning to cling or stick to.

In materials science and engineering, adhesion describes the attractive forces that bind two dissimilar materials at their interface. This property enables coatings, adhesives, tapes, and films to remain attached under useful conditions. Factors such as surface chemistry, cleanliness, roughness, and applied load influence adhesive performance.

In biological and medical contexts, adhesion can refer to how cells attach to one another and to the extracellular matrix, a process essential for tissue formation and wound healing. Medical discussions frequently address patient adherence (or compliance) to prescribed regimens, including taking medications on schedule, following dietary or activity guidelines, and attending follow-up appointments. Poor adherence can reduce treatment effectiveness, worsen health outcomes, and raise costs.

Factors influencing adherence include complexity of the regimen, side effects, health literacy, access to care, and social support. Strategies to improve adherence often involve simplifying regimens, using reminders, educating patients, and providing coordinated care. Across contexts, adherence generally denotes a sustained and purposeful alignment with a set standard, expectation, or physical bond.