obliged

[ uh-blahyjd ]

adjective

1. bound by duty, ethics, or politeness:

   You can bring something to share at the picnic, but please don't feel obliged.

2. forced by law, regulation, or necessity:

   All students are obliged to participate in an internship program.

3. appreciative or grateful:

   If you could shed some light on this mystery, I'd be obliged.

verb

1. the simple past tense and past participle of oblige ( def ).

Other Words From

• o·blig·ed·ly [uh, -, blahy, -jid-lee], adverb
• o·blig·ed·ness noun
• un·o·bliged adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of obliged¹

oblige ( def ) + -ed ²( def )

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. (very) much obliged, thank you (very much):

   Much obliged for your efforts!

Example Sentences

ICC member states - which do not include Israel or the US - are obliged to take action in detaining a wanted defendant if they are found to be in their jurisdiction.

From BBC

“As a responsible person, he will be obliged to fulfill them.”

From Los Angeles Times

Main and others said doctors are obliged to counsel patients on the risks and benefits of all their options, including a D&C.

From Salon

They say the breakdown in public order needs to be addressed and that Israel, as an occupying power, is obliged to provide protection and security.

From BBC

He positioned himself as the man who wanted to take all the flak, to protect his players, and former players and pundits obliged.

From BBC

Related Words

• compelled
• duty-bound
• enslaved
• indebted
• obligated