Oblige

/əˈblaɪdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to do something as a favor or to accommodate someone

She was happy to oblige her friend by helping with the project.

to bind or compel someone to do something, often by moral or legal duty

The contract obliged the company to complete the work by the deadline.

to be indebted or grateful to someone for a favor or service

I feel obliged to thank everyone who helped organize the event.

From Middle English 'obligen', from Old French 'obliger', from Latin 'obligare'.

to be obliged to

to be required or expected to do something.

oblige (someone) with

to do a favor for someone.

feel obliged

to feel that one must help or do something.

obligation

A legal or moral duty to do something.

obligatory

Required by a rule or law.

To hook someone up

I can oblige you with a ride to the party.

To come through for someone

He really obliged me when he fixed my car.