binding

1 of 2

noun

bind·​ing ˈbīn-diŋ 

1

: the action of one that binds

2

: a material or device used to bind: such as

a

: the cover and materials that hold a book together

b

: a narrow fabric used to finish raw edges

c

: a device that holds a boot firmly to a ski or snowboard

binding

2 of 2

adjective

1

: that binds

2

: imposing an obligation

bindingly

ˈbīn-diŋ-lē 

adverb

bindingness noun

Examples of binding in a Sentence

Noun

a carpet edged with canvas binding

The bindings have started to come loose.

Adjective

The contract is legally binding.

The parties agreed to settle the dispute through binding arbitration.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

One outdoor website cites advances in gear, including lightweight skis, specialized bindings, and boots, as contributing to the popularity of the once-niche pastime. —Noe Padilla, USA Today, 18 Feb. 2026

While the smart-bindings system is being developed, Rearick - now the director of Apex 2100, an international ski academy in Tignes, France - suggested addressing the racing suits. —CBS News, 18 Feb. 2026

Adjective

Earlier reports said the company had booked 20,500 pre-orders, but the film reveals this has now risen to 30,000 non-binding pre-orders. —Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 16 Feb. 2026

The non-binding DOJ guidance further advises police should weigh several factors before a PIT maneuver. —Mark Pazniokas, Hartford Courant, 13 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing binding

• adhesive binding
• binding energy
• binding site
• perfect binding
• spiral binding

Rhymes for binding

• blinding
• finding
• grinding
• minding
• winding
• bookbinding
• factfinding
• nonbinding
• rebinding
• regrinding
• reminding
• rewinding

Kids Definition

binding

noun

bind·​ing

ˈbīn-diŋ

1

: the cover and fastenings of a book

2

: a narrow strip of fabric used along the edge of an article of clothing

Legal Definition

binding

adjective

1

: imposing a legal obligation

the agreement is binding on the parties

2

: requiring submission to a specified authority

the suppression order was binding on the Department of Transportation

—National Law Journal