Definition of obligation

• n. - The act of obligating.
• n. - 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.
• n. - 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.
• n. - 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.
• n. - 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.