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

Any bonding bill will require a three-fifths supermajority to pass, forcing stiff negotiations between lawmakers from both parties. —Frederick Melo, Twin Cities, 16 Apr. 2026

McKeavin’s reasons for creating victory gardens are multiple, including that his own home garden has become a bonding activity with his youngest daughter, Lauren. —Felicia Feaster, AJC.com, 13 Apr. 2026

Pair bonding — two animals forming an exclusive, long-term partnership — is almost unheard of in insects. —Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 13 Apr. 2026

But what makes this finding remarkable is that pair bonding is almost unheard of among insects. —Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 13 Apr. 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