obligation meaning and definition

OBLIGATION noun

Definition of obligation (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"- John D.Rockefeller Jr
   • synonyms: duty, responsibility
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
   • synonyms: indebtedness
4. a written promise to repay a debt
   • synonyms: certificate of indebtedness, debt instrument
5. a legal agreement specifying a payment or action and the penalty for failure to comply