ligature

n. [ L. ligatura, fr. ligare, ligatum, to bind: cf. F. ligature. Cf. Ally, League, Legatura, Liable, Ligament. ] 1. The act of binding. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Anything that binds; a band or bandage. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Surg.) (a) A thread or string for tying the blood vessels, particularly the arteries, to prevent hemorrhage. (b) A thread or wire used to remove tumors, etc. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. The state of being bound or stiffened; stiffness; as, the ligature of a joint. [ 1913 Webster ]

5. Impotence caused by magic or charms. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

6. (Mus.) A curve or line connecting notes; a slur. [ 1913 Webster ]

7. (Print.) A double character, or a type consisting of two or more letters or characters united, as æ, fi, ffl. [ 1913 Webster ]