Abstract: New polymerizable adhesive compositions comprising a monomeric ester of .alpha.-cyanoacrylic acid and a difunctional monomeric cross-linking agent which is a diester of acrylic or methacrylic acid and an alcohol having at least two esterifiable hydroxyl group, are found to develop increased cohesive bond strength upon polymerization. The compositions, if desired, can contain a finely divided aggregate, preferred aggregates being alumina and quartz. In addition, the compositions can advantageously contain sodium fluoride.The monomeric compounds of these adhesive compositions are polymerized in a cross-linked mode by means of an amine activated free radical initiator.The compositions can be applied to either wet or dry surfaces of a variety of materials. They are suitable for application to animal tissue, e.g.