binding

[ bahyn-ding ]

noun

1. the act of fastening, securing, uniting, or the like.
2. anything that binds.
3. the covering within which the leaves of a book are bound. bound.
4. a strip of material that protects or decorates the edge of a tablecloth, rug, etc.
5. Skiing. a mechanical device on a ski, usually made of metal, that fastens the boot securely to the ski.

adjective

1. that binds; restrictive.
2. having power to bind or oblige; obligatory:

   a binding promise.

binding

/ ˈbaɪndɪŋ /

noun

1. anything that binds or fastens
2. the covering within which the pages of a book are bound
3. the material or tape used for binding hems, etc

adjective

1. imposing an obligation or duty

   a binding promise

2. causing hindrance; restrictive

Other Words From

• binding·ly adverb
• binding·ness noun
• non·binding adjective
• non·binding·ly adverb
• non·binding·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of binding¹

Middle English word dating back to 1200–50; bind, -ing ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

Depending on chemical markers placed on these histones, the chromatin can be wound tightly -- preventing transcription factors from binding -- or loosely, making it accessible for generating mRNA copies.

From Science Daily

For decades, Berlin had tried to ensure peace with Moscow by binding the two countries together with trade and energy links.

From BBC

The law, he has said, is unconstitutional and therefore not binding.

From New York Times

In order to get this clearance, Teixeira signed a "lifetime binding non-disclosure agreement" acknowledging that the "unauthorized disclosure of protected information could result in criminal charges", according to court documents.

From BBC

The vote would not be legally binding but would be politically difficult for Labour MPs to ignore.

From BBC

Related Words

• conclusive
• irrevocable
• mandatory
• required