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

The new calf will remain with his mother for bonding time before being slowly introduced to other herd members. —Gabrielle Rockson, PEOPLE, 24 Oct. 2025

For four weeks, Haddish travels with her longtime best friends Selena Martin, Shermona Long, and Sparkle Clark to have a good time, of course, but to also do some bonding, confront some truths, and do some healing. —Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 24 Oct. 2025

Men often form musical identities earlier, driven by independence and peer bonding. —Maria Azzurra Volpe, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Oct. 2025

About 10 Wildcat players gathered every Thursday at Spare Time Bowling in Huntersville for bowling, conversation and bonding. —Steve Lyttle, Charlotte Observer, 21 Oct. 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