The act of obligating.
That which obligates or constrains; the binding power of a promise, contract, oath, or vow, or of law; that which constitutes legal or moral duty.
Any act by which a person becomes bound to do something to or for another, or to forbear something; external duties imposed by law, promise, or contract, by the relations of society, or by courtesy, kindness, etc.
The state of being obligated or bound; the state of being indebted for an act of favor or kindness; - often used with under to indicate being in that state; as, to place others under obligations to one.
A bond with a condition annexed, and a penalty for nonfulfillment. In a larger sense, it is an acknowledgment of a duty to pay a certain sum or do a certain things.
That which is due; payment.
That which a person is bound by moral obligation to do, or refrain from doing; that which one ought to do; service morally obligatory.
Hence, any assigned service or business; as, the duties of a policeman, or a soldier; to be on duty.
Specifically, obedience or submission due to parents and superiors.
Respect; reverence; regard; act of respect; homage.
The efficiency of an engine, especially a steam pumping engine, as measured by work done by a certain quantity of fuel; usually, the number of pounds of water lifted one foot by one bushel of coal (94 lbs. old standard), or by 1 cwt. (112 lbs., England, or 100 lbs., United States).
Tax, toll, impost, or customs; excise; any sum of money required by government to be paid on the importation, exportation, or consumption of goods.
