adherence
UK: ədˈhɪərəns | US: ədˈhɪrəns
n. the act of adhering; steady devotion or support
n. the quality of sticking firmly to a surface or substance
The word "adherence" derives from Latin adhaerentia, formed from adhaerēre (to stick to), itself composed of ad- (to) + haerēre (to stick). The morpheme "adhere" preserves the core idea of attachment, while "-ence" nominalizes the action or state. Over time, the term expanded from physical sticking (e.g., glue) to abstract loyalty (e.g., principles).
The tape’s adherence to the wall weakened over time.
Her adherence to the rules earned her respect.
Medical adherence is critical for effective treatment.
The paint’s adherence depends on surface preparation.
His strict adherence to tradition surprised the younger generation.