Obligation meaning

noun

1. the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force

   “we must instill a sense of duty in our children”

   “every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty”

   Synonymsdutyresponsibility

2. the state of being obligated to do or pay something

   “he is under an obligation to finish the job”

3. a personal relation in which one is indebted for a service or favor

   Synonymsindebtedness

4. a written promise to repay a debt

   Synonymsdebt instrumentcertificate of indebtedness

5. a legal agreement specifying a payment or action and the penalty for failure to comply