definition of
obligation

[1] #1 obligation n. [duty, responsibility] the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force; "we must instill a sense of duty in our children"; "every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty"- John D.Rockefeller Jr. wn

[2] #2 obligation n. the state of being obligated to do or pay something; "he is under an obligation to finish the job". wn

[3] #3 obligation n. [indebtedness] a personal relation in which one is indebted for a service or favor. wn

[4] #4 obligation n. [debt instrument, certificate of indebtedness] a written promise to repay a debt. wn

[5] #5 obligation n. a legal agreement specifying a payment or action and the penalty for failure to comply. wn