bonding

noun

bond·​ing ˈbän-diŋ 

1

: the formation of a close relationship (as between a mother and child or between a person and an animal) especially through frequent or constant association

2

: the attaching of a material (such as porcelain) to a tooth surface especially for cosmetic purposes

Synonyms

• adherence
• adhesion
• cling

Examples of bonding in a Sentence

He and his dad spent the weekend together for some male bonding.

this epoxy has good bonding for glass and ceramics

Recent Examples on the Web

No spoilers, no summaries, and no shortcuts — just real conversations and a genuine love of learning and bonding. —Ashley Vega, People.com, 19 May 2025

Shared creative flow fosters faster bonding than small talk. —Cheryl Robinson, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025

The bonding experiences can also continue off the ship during shore excursions. —Fran Golden, AFAR Media, 13 May 2025

Anxiety can also contribute to postpartum depression, poor parent-infant bonding, and emotional or behavioral issues in children. —Hannah Silverman, Parents, 2 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for bonding

• ponding
• absconding
• desponding
• responding
• antibonding
• corresponding

Medical Definition

bonding

noun

bond·​ing

1

: the formation of a close relationship (as between a mother and child or between a person and an animal) especially through frequent or constant association see male bonding

2

: a dental technique in which a material and especially plastic or porcelain is attached to a tooth surface to correct minor defects (as chipped or discolored teeth) especially for cosmetic purposes