The term CLING TO can be defined by the following crossword solutions: HOLD (4 letters), CHERISH (7 letters), HUG (3 letters), CLEAVE (6 letters), and ADHERE (6 letters). To HOLD onto something is to keep it in one's possession or grasp, while cherishing implies a deep appreciation and fondness for something. To HUG is to embrace someone or something with one's arms, while cleaving is to cling or ADHERE closely to something. Lastly, to ADHERE is to stick firmly to something. All of these words describe the act of clinging to something, whether it be an object, person, or idea.