obliged

American  

[uh-blahyjd] / əˈblaɪdʒd /

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.

idioms

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

   Much obliged for your efforts!

Other Word Forms

• obligedly adverb
• obligedness noun
• unobliged adjective

Etymology

Origin of obliged

oblige ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

Williamson is no longer obliged to play for New Zealand, having signed a casual playing agreement that gives him freedom to pick and choose when he is available.

From Barron's

Woltemade obliged, sticking out a boot to poke home from close range before a lengthy VAR check confirmed the German was just onside.

From Barron's

He says each one "was notified by the end of May 2025, in agreement with the Solicitors Regulation Authority" and "none of them were obliged to instruct Jones Whyte".

From BBC

If that fails, you can complain to your local council, who are obliged to investigate.

From BBC

Meisel obliged with a score at times touching 120 beats per minute.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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