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

• 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

There’s a difference between being open and emotionally dumping in the name of bonding. —Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025

Once a year at Vanderbilt University, current and former tight ends gather for three days of bonding, collaboration and learning from one another. —Christie D’zurilla, Los Angeles Times, 25 June 2025

The actor dives into bonding with Michelle Williams and doing physical comedy with Jenny Slate, and shares his hopes for Neighbor Guy after his time with Molly. —Alamin Yohannes, EW.com, 21 June 2025

Another major part of Black identity is generational bonding. —Danielle Broadway, Parents, 18 June 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