The word "clingy" refers to something or someone that tends to stick closely or hold on tightly. In a more emotional or psychological context, it describes a person—often in relationships—who is overly dependent or excessively attached to another person. This can manifest in wanting constant reassurance, needing a lot of attention, or being uncomfortable with any form of separation.
The word "clingy" comes from the verb "cling," which has Old English origins, derived from the word "clingan." The suffix "-y" is often added to nouns or verbs to form adjectives indicating a quality or condition.