cling · verb I /klɪŋ/Full view
cling
C2 to hold someone or something tightly, especially because you are frightened
Dictionary examples:

She was found clinging to the ledge.

I clung on to his hand in the dark.

Learner example:

I [had] clung to my father ever since I was born. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Korean)

cling to sth
C2 to try very hard to keep something
Dictionary example:

He clung to power for ten more years.

Learner example:

Thankfully, there are those who still cling to such age-old values as personal contentment and growth regarding them as the anchors which hold happiness fast. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)

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