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 of bonding

• adhesion
• cling
• adherence

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

In this particular situation, the vocalizations may help support social bonding during birth. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 26 Mar. 2026

Another possibility is that bonding with nature may also make people more resilient. —Lea Barbett, The Conversation, 25 Mar. 2026

Neonatal monitoring in giraffes is particularly important, as those first hours — standing, nursing, and bonding — are critical developmental benchmarks. —Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 24 Mar. 2026

Lime was utilized in masonry bonding and surface finishing, so the exceptional find that has inspired locals to visit the site has opened a door onto the building blocks of the city, quite literally, the material and the methods that brought it to life. —Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 23 Mar. 2026

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