obligation

//ˌɒblɪˈɡeɪʃən//
B2Frequency Level 8Formal
Visual representation of obligation

Noun

obligationSingular
obligationsPlural
1

A duty or commitment that one is required or expected to fulfill, either legally or morally.

Parents have an obligation to care for their children.

2

The state of being bound to do something or behave in a certain way by law, agreement, or moral principle.

The company has a legal obligation to protect customer data.

3

A debt of gratitude for a service or favor received.

I feel a deep obligation to her for helping me through difficult times.