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

The show finds the comedian bonding with famous sports figures while immersed in tubs filled with ice, which brings an uncomfortable comedic urgency to their chats. — Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 15 July 2026

Showrunner Bekah Brunstetter tells PEOPLE there were no chemistry reads during the casting process, which meant that the actresses’ bonding in real-time paralleled that of their characters. — Julia Moore, PEOPLE, 14 July 2026

Baby yoga and reflexology sessions encourage relaxation and parent-child bonding. — Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 14 July 2026

But what makes this latest bonding so compelling is that it wasn’t designed by the government. — Alfredo Corchado, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 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