obligation

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noun

Definition of OBLIGATION

1

something one must do because of prior agreement <their financial obligations keep them from giving to charities as much as they would like>

Synonyms burden, charge, commitment, devoir, do [archaic], duty, imperative, incumbency, need, office, responsibility

Related Words oath, pledge, promise, troth, vow, word; arrangement, prearrangement, setup; compact, contract, covenant, pact, trust; debt, payment, tribute; compulsion, constraint, restraint; must, requirement; coercion, duress, force; appointment, engagement, reservation; burden, onus

Near Antonyms grace, postponement, stay; discharge, ease, exemption, release, relief, waiver; loophole; alternative, choice, option, pick, preference, selection

2

something (as money) which is owed <I have to pay off my current obligations before I can buy a new car>

Synonyms arrearage, arrears, indebtedness, liability (usually liabilities), obligation, score

Related Words bond, debit, delinquency; bankruptcy, default, embarrassment, insolvency

Near Antonyms quietus, quittance, repayment; asset