Find the word definition

The Collaborative International Dictionary
under obligation

Obligation \Ob"li*ga"tion\, n. [F. obligation. L. obligatio. See Oblige.]

  1. The act of obligating.

  2. 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.

  3. Any act by which a person becomes bound to do something to or for another, 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.

  4. The state of being obligated or bound; the state of being indebted for an act of favor or kindness; -- often used with under to indicate being in that state; as, to place others under obligations to one.

  5. (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.

    under obligation, under an obligation. in a state of obligation[4].

Usage examples of "under obligation".

And beyond that: you have put yourself under obligation to the Powers to ransom my life from Death's cold halls.

So the logical course of action is for you to do such a brilliant job that you win my trust and place me under obligation to you—.

Her circumstances were known in the village, so she concluded that some kindhearted soul did not wish her to feel under obligation.