bond

1 : something that binds or restrains : fetter prisoners freed from their bonds the bonds of oppression

2 : a binding agreement : covenant united in the bonds of holy matrimony My word is my bond.

3a : a band or cord used to tie something

b : a material (such as timber or brick) or device for binding

c chemistry : an attractive force that holds together the atoms, ions, or groups of atoms in a molecule or crystal chemical bonds

d : an adhesive, cementing material, or fusible ingredient that combines, unites, or strengthens

4 : a uniting or binding element or force : tie the bonds of friendship

5a : an obligation made binding by a forfeit of money also : the amount of the money guarantee I have sworn an oath, that I will have my bond — Shakespeare The accused was released on $40,000 bond.

b : one who provides bail or acts as surety (see surety sense 3)

c finance : an interest-bearing certificate of public or private indebtedness money that she had invested in stocks and bonds

d : an insurance agreement pledging that one will become legally liable for financial loss caused to another by the act or default of a third person or by some contingency over which the third person may have no control

6 masonry : the systematic lapping (see lap entry 2 sense 4a) of brick in a wall

7 : the state of goods made, stored, or transported under the care of an agency until the duties or taxes on them are paid you may leave … tobacco in bond with customs— Richard Joseph

8 alcohol : a 100-proof straight whiskey aged at least four years under government supervision before being bottled

— called also bonded whiskey

9 : bond paper

Definition of bond

WORD OF THE DAY