cohesion

UK: /kəʊˈhiː.ʒən/ | US: /koʊˈhiː.ʒən/

Definition

  1. n. the act or state of sticking together; unity

  2. n. (physics) the intermolecular force that holds particles of a substance together

  3. n. (linguistics) the grammatical and lexical linking within a text

Structure
co <together>hes <stick>ion <noun suffix>
Etymology

cohesion = co<together> + hes<stick> + ion<noun suffix>

  • co (Latin cum): Prefix meaning "together" or "with."
  • hes (Latin haerere): Root meaning "to stick" or "to cling."
  • ion: Noun-forming suffix indicating an action or state.

Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin cohaesio (from cohaerere, "to stick together"), cohesion entered English in the 17th century, originally describing physical adhesion. Over time, it expanded to abstract contexts like social unity (18th century) and linguistic coherence (20th century). The morphemes vividly reflect the core idea of "sticking together," whether physically or metaphorically.

Examples

  1. The cohesion of the team ensured their success in the project.

  2. Water molecules exhibit strong cohesion due to hydrogen bonds.

  3. The essay lacked cohesion, making it difficult to follow.

  4. Social cohesion is vital for a harmonious community.

  5. The glue’s cohesion weakened under high temperatures.