binding

American  

[bahyn-ding] / ˈbaɪn dɪŋ /

noun

1. the act of fastening, securing, uniting, or the like.

2. anything that binds.

3. the covering within which the leaves of a book are bound. bound.

4. a strip of material that protects or decorates the edge of a tablecloth, rug, etc.

5. Skiing. a mechanical device on a ski, usually made of metal, that fastens the boot securely to the ski.

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adjective

1. that binds; restrictive.

2. having power to bind or oblige; obligatory.

   a binding promise.

binding British  

/ ˈbaɪndɪŋ /

noun

1. anything that binds or fastens

2. the covering within which the pages of a book are bound

3. the material or tape used for binding hems, etc

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adjective

1. imposing an obligation or duty

   a binding promise

2. causing hindrance; restrictive

Other Word Forms

• bindingly adverb
• bindingness noun
• nonbinding adjective
• nonbindingly adverb
• nonbindingness noun

Etymology

Origin of binding

Middle English word dating back to 1200–50; bind, -ing ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

"Those orders are binding and operative," the letter said.

From BBC

You have protected your assets and your stepdaughter’s inheritance by ensuring that you and your second husband signed a prenuptial agreement, although they’re not automatically binding under the law in England and Wales.

From MarketWatch

Hapag-Lloyd said in an ad hoc release that it is in negotiations to buy all of ZIM’s shares but is yet to enter into a binding agreement.

From Barron's

Some economists argue the language around purchases is non‑binding, hence it protects New Delhi if it fails to meet the goal.

From Barron's

They are binding promises—and they must be honored, especially when doing so is inconvenient.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• conclusive
• irrevocable
• mandatory
• required