Ob"li*ga"tion (?), n. [F.
obligation. L. obligatio. See Oblige.]
1. The act of obligating.
2. 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.
A tender conscience is a stronger obligation
than a proson.
Fuller.
3. Any act by which a person becomes bound to
do something to or for anouther, or to forbear something; external
duties imposed by law, promise, or contract, by the relations of
society, or by courtesy, kindness, etc.
Every man has obligations which belong to his
station. Duties extend beyond obligation, and direct the
affections, desires, and intentions, as well as the
actions.
Whewell.
4. The state of being obligated or bound; the
state of being indebted for an act of favor or kindness; as, to place
others under obligations to one.
5. (Law) 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.
Days of obligation. See under
Day.