Adherence
/ədˈhɪərəns/
nounIntermediateCommonGeneral
Meaning
Question
Definitions
1
The quality or state of adhering; steadfast attachment or devotion.
/ədˈhɪərəns/
nounneutralIntermediate
General
The act or state of sticking fast to something.
His adherence to the principles of nonviolence was unwavering.
💡 Simply: Sticking to something.
More Examples
2
The success of the treatment depends on the patient's adherence to the prescribed regimen.
How It's Used
Medical
"The patient's adherence to the medication schedule was crucial for recovery."
Legal
"Strict adherence to the rules is necessary to avoid penalties."
From Middle English adherens, from Old French adherens, present participle of adherer, from Latin adhaerēre "to stick to," from ad- "to" + haerēre "to stick, cling."
Historically, the word's usage emphasized physical sticking, but it evolved to encompass commitment and fidelity.
Memory tip
Think of 'ad' (to) and 'here' (staying), so it's staying attached.
Practice
adheranceadhearance
Usage
10%Spoken
90%Written