adjective

cohesive

koh-HEE-siv/kəʊˈhiːsɪv/

Forming a unified whole with connected parts.

The cohesive dough stretches but stays together as the baker lifts it.

A baker lifts a cohesive mass of bread dough from a bowl; the dough stretches slightly but remains visibly joined as one continuous whole.

Etymology

coLatintogether

+hesLatinto stick, cling

+iveEnglishtending to

The pieces describe a tendency to stick together. The underlying Latin verb also meant being coherent or consistent, connecting physical adhesion with parts that form a unified whole.

In context

Whispers of History8:27

The building could then sway and rock as a single cohesive unit, dissipating the energy harmoniously instead of breaking apart at its weakest link.

How EARLY Builders Formed Earthquake-Resistant Design With Primitive Tools

More examples

The repeated colors give the rooms a cohesive look.
Her essay connects several personal experiences into a cohesive argument.
Regular gatherings help neighbors build a cohesive community.

Forms

cohesive

cohesion noun — The connection that holds parts together.

cohesively adverb — In a connected and unified way.

Similar words

unified: Emphasizes separate elements brought together as one whole.
coherent: Emphasizes logical connections that make ideas understandable.
integrated: Emphasizes distinct components combined into a functioning whole.