The capillary action of water is a result of the adhesive properties of water.

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Capillary action is the ability of a liquid to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of, or in opposition to, external forces like gravity. It happens when the cohesive forces (intermolecular forces between molecules of the same substance) are stronger than the adhesive forces (intermolecular forces between molecules of different substances). However, in the case of water, the adhesive properties (ability to stick to surfaces with which it comes in contact) are stronger than its cohesive properties. Water molecules stick to the walls of the capillary tubes because they are attracted to the surface material, and this attraction pulls the water up against the force of gravity, creating the capillary action.

The Capillary Action of Water Is a Result of the Adhesive