Beholden

/bɪˈhoʊldən/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Under obligation; indebted or grateful.

She felt beholden to her friends for their support during tough times.

Having obligations to someone or something.

The politician was beholden to his campaign donors.

Indebted to someone, especially for a favor or assistance.

He was beholden to his mentor for guiding him through his career.

Conditioned by favors or kindness received.

They are beholden not just for the financial help, but for the moral support as well.

Derived from the past participle of 'behold', with the suffix '-en' indicating a state of being.

beholden to someone

Being under obligation to someone for help or support.

not beholden to anyone

Indicating freedom from obligation or indebtedness.

indebted

Feeling gratitude for a favor received.

obligated

Bound by a duty or commitment.

Feeling like you owe someone something.

After the big favor, I felt totally beholden to him.

Being in someone's pocket.

If you take their money, you'll be beholden to their rules.