obligation

Definitions

1. 1.That which obligates or constrains; the binding power of a promise, contract, oath, or vow, or of law; that which constitutes legal or moral duty. A tender conscience is a stronger obligation than a proson. Fuller.
2. 2.Any act by which a person becomes bound to do something to or for anouther, or to forbear something; external duties imposed by law, promise, or contract, by the relations of society, or by courtesy, kindness, etc. Every man has obligations which belong to his station. Duties extend beyond obligation, and direct the affections, desires, and intentions, as well as the actions. Whewell.
3. 3.The state of being obligated or bound; the state of being indebted for an act of favor or kindness; as, to place others under obligations to one.
4. 4.(Law) A bond with a condition annexed, and a penalty for nonfulfillment. In a larger sense, it is an acknowledgment of a duty to pay a certain sum or do a certain things. Days of obligation. See under Day.

Source: Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913 edition (public domain, via GCIDE / Project Gutenberg).

Synonyms

Related questions

• What does "obligation" mean?
• What is another word for "obligation"?

Reverse-dictionary questions

Definition-first questions whose answer is obligation.

• What is the state of being obligated or bound; the state of being indebted for an act of favor or kindness; as, to place others under obligations to one called?