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

Since then, Carly has shared several sweet moments of her girls bonding. —Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 21 Apr. 2026

Like the little brown-furred cub, the animals can easily capture a caretaker's heart — but bonding with humans is not an option when the goal is to eventually return them to the wild. —ABC News, 20 Apr. 2026

The structure is on public land, and state bonding was used to lower the cost of financing through the Capital Regional Development Authority. —Mark Pazniokas, Hartford Courant, 19 Apr. 2026

Garland, 23, missed their first month after his arrival because of toe issues, missing key practice and team bonding time. —Janis Carr, Oc Register, 17 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