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

Gelman is the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors herself, a point of bonding with the Wallach cousins. —Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 18 June 2026

Toward the beginning of the episode, the group sits down to eat at a hole-in-the-wall barbecue spot and the camera swings around the table in a sweeping circular motion, capturing everyone laughing, bonding and sharing a meal. —Mia Galuppo, HollywoodReporter, 17 June 2026

The direct ionic and hydrogen-bonding interactions between the prickly pear peel pigment and the wool fiber enabled by microwaving eliminates the need for a mordant intermediary. —Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 17 June 2026

According to Albers, planning an itinerary with another person, exploring new places together, and navigating any travel hiccups that come your way all help to accelerate the emotional bonding process. —Laura Kiniry, Popular Science, 17 June 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