glom on
C1 informal intransitive
In simple words
To stick to someone or grab onto something like glue, usually when you weren't invited.
Literal meaning: To stick or adhere on top of something.
Meanings
1 C1
idiomatic
informal
To attach oneself to a person in a clingy, uninvited, or opportunistic way.
"At every party, he would glom on to whoever looked most popular."
2 C1
idiomatic
informal
To seize upon or become fixated on an idea, trend, or object.
"The media glommed on to the story and wouldn't let it go for weeks."
Usage notes
Primarily North American informal. Often implies unwanted or opportunistic attachment. Used both for people clinging socially and for ideas taking hold. Usually followed by 'to' in practice, making 'glom on' and 'glom onto' nearly interchangeable.
Commonly used with
idea person trend group concept stranger
Forms
Base
glom on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
gloms on
he/she/it
Past simple
glomed on
yesterday
Past participle
glomed on
have + pp
-ing form
gloming on
continuous
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