First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1bind
verb \ˈbīnd\
: to tie or wrap (something) with rope, string, etc.
: to tie the hands or feet of a person to prevent escape or movement
of clothing : to prevent free movement by fitting too tightly
bound \ˈbau̇nd\ bind·ing
Full Definition of BIND
transitive verb
1
a : to make secure by tying b : to confine, restrain, or restrict as if with bonds c : to put under an obligation <binds himself with an oath> d : to constrain with legal authority
2
a : to wrap around with something so as to enclose or cover b : bandage
3
: to fasten round about
4
: to tie together (as stocks of wheat)
5
a : to cause to stick together b : to take up and hold (as by chemical forces) : combine with
6
7
: to make a firm commitment for <a handshake binds the deal>
8
: to protect, strengthen, or decorate by a band or binding
9
: to apply the parts of the cover to (a book)
10
: to set at work as an apprentice : indenture
11
: to cause to have an emotional attachment
12
: to fasten together <a pin bound the ends of the scarf>
intransitive verb
1
a : to form a cohesive mass b : to combine or be taken up especially by chemical action <antibody binds to a specific antigen>
2
: to hamper free movement or natural action
3
: to become hindered from free operation
4
: to exert a restraining or compelling effect <a promise that binds>
See bind defined for English-language learners
See bind defined for kids
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Origin of BIND
Middle English, from Old English bindan; akin to Old High German bintan to bind, Greek peisma cable, Sanskrit badhnāti he ties
Related to BIND
2bind
noun
: a difficult situation
: an annoying problem
Full Definition of BIND
1
2
: tie 3
3
: a position or situation in which one is hampered, constrained, or prevented from free movement or action
— in a bind
: in trouble
See bind defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of BIND
before 12th century
BIND[1] Defined for Kids
1bind
verb \ˈbīnd\
bound \ˈbau̇nd\bind·ing
Definition of BIND for Kids
1
: to tie or wrap securely (as with string or rope) <The machine binds the hay into bales.>
2
: to hold or restrict by force or obligation <The oath binds you.>
3
: to wrap or cover with a bandage <bind a wound>
4
: to cause to be joined together closely <… the increased affection which comes to bind households… — Louisa May Alcott, Little Women>
5
: to fasten together and enclose in a cover <bind a book>
2bind
noun
Definition of BIND for Kids
: a difficult situation <I'm in a real bind.>
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