Adherence means sticking faithfully to a rule, plan, belief, or commitment. When doctors talk about adherence to a medication schedule, they mean taking medicine exactly as prescribed: the right amount, at the right times, for the full duration. When a coach emphasizes adherence to practice schedules, she wants players showing up consistently, following through every time rather than only when they feel like it.

Think of adherence as the steady, reliable kind of sticking: trying something once and then following through day after day. A scientist's adherence to careful procedures ensures accurate results. A musician's adherence to daily practice builds real skill over time.

Adherence differs from obedience because it often involves your own choice and commitment rather than simply following orders. When you show adherence to your principles, you're staying true to what you believe is right, even when it's difficult or when no one's watching.

The word suggests dedication and consistency. Anyone can follow a plan for a day or two, but adherence means maintaining that commitment for weeks, months, or years.