n. [ F. obligation. L. obligatio. See Oblige. ] 1. The act of obligating. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

A tender conscience is a stronger obligation than a proson. Fuller. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. 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. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. 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. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

Days of obligation. See under Day. --
under obligation,
under an obligation. in a state of obligation{ 4 }. [ 1913 Webster +PJC ]

adj. relating or constituting or qualified to create a legal or financial obligation; as, obligational authority. [ WordNet 1.5 ]