Meaning & Definition of Obligation in English

1. The social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force

• "We must instill a sense of duty in our children"

• "Every right implies a responsibility

• Every opportunity, an obligation

• Every possession, a duty"- john d.rockefeller jr

2. The state of being obligated to do or pay something

• "He is under an obligation to finish the job"

3. A personal relation in which one is indebted for a service or favor

4. A written promise to repay a debt

5. A legal agreement specifying a payment or action and the penalty for failure to comply