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

Especially, in today’s digital world, where children often find their first communities on social media or gaming apps, intentional family bonding is much needed. —Sixteen Ramos, USA Today, 10 May 2025

In corporate America there is immense pressure to drink with colleagues and professional contacts as a means of bonding. —Maya Richard-Craven, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025

Videos on the zoo’s social media pages show the bonding process. —Brooke Baitinger, Sacbee.com, 23 Apr. 2025

During the five day camp, campers are paired with foster dogs for an exercise in bonding, responsibility and social and emotional learning. —Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 22 Apr. 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