obligation

(ŏbˌlĭ-gāˈshən)

1. The act of binding oneself by a social, legal, or moral tie.
2. a. A social, legal, or moral requirement, such as a duty, contract, or promise that compels one to follow or avoid a particular course of action.
   b. A course of action imposed by society, law, or conscience by which one is bound or restricted.
3. The constraining power of a promise, contract, law, or sense of duty.
4. Law
   a. A legal agreement stipulating a specified payment or action, especially if the agreement also specifies a penalty for failure to comply.
   b. The document containing the terms of such an agreement.
5. a. Something owed as payment or in return for a special service or favor.
   b. The service or favor for which one is indebted to another.
6. The state, fact, or feeling of being indebted to another for a special service or favor received.

Related Forms:

• obˌli·gaˈtion·al adjective