Definition and Pronunciation
Bond (pronounced BOND; IPA: /bɒnd/ or /bɑːnd/) is a close connection, relationship, or tie that unites people through shared experiences, emotions, trust, affection, or commitment. A bond may develop between family members, friends, romantic partners, communities, or even between people and animals. The word can also refer to something that physically or emotionally holds people or things together.
Pronunciation:BOND
Easy Explanation
A bond is the connection that brings people together and helps maintain a relationship over time. It is often built through trust, understanding, communication, shared experiences, and mutual care. Some bonds form naturally, while others grow stronger through time and effort.
Although the word is commonly associated with emotional relationships, it is also used in science, law, finance, and other fields with different meanings.
Grammatical Formation
- Part of speech: Noun and verb
- Base form (verb): bond
- Third-person singular: bonds
- Past tense: bonded
- Past participle: bonded
- Present participle: bonding
- Related noun: bonding
- Related adjective: bonded
Word Comparisons
Bond vs. Relationship
A relationship is the overall connection between people, while a bond refers to the emotional tie or attachment that strengthens that relationship.
Bond vs. Partnership
A partnership emphasizes shared responsibilities and cooperation. A bond focuses more on the emotional connection that develops between individuals.
Bond vs. Attachment
Both words describe close connections, but attachment is often used in psychology to describe emotional patterns formed early in life. Bond has a broader meaning and applies to many kinds of personal relationships.
Connotations
The word bond usually has a positive connotation, suggesting closeness, affection, loyalty, trust, and emotional connection. In some contexts, however, it may describe obligations or legal ties, depending on how it is used.
Meaning with Prepositions
- Bond between – A strong bond developed between the two siblings.
- Bond with – Children often form a close bond with their caregivers.
- Bond over – The friends bonded over their shared interests.
- Bond through – Trust grew through honest communication.
- Bond among – A strong bond among teammates improved cooperation.
Real-Life Examples
Parents often develop a deep emotional bond with their children through daily care and affection.
Friends who support one another during difficult times usually build a stronger bond.
A couple strengthens their bond by communicating openly and respecting each other’s feelings.
Synonyms
- Connection
- Tie
- Relationship
- Attachment
- Affection
- Link
Antonyms
- Separation
- Distance
- Disconnection
- Estrangement
- Alienation
Related Terms
Common Collocations
- Strong bond
- Emotional bond
- Close bond
- Lifelong bond
- Family bond
- Romantic bond
- Build a bond
- Form a bond
- Bond with someone
- Bond between partners
Idiomatic and Figurative Usage
The word bond is often used figuratively to emphasize emotional closeness or unity. Expressions such as a bond of trust, a special bond, and an unbreakable bond describe relationships strengthened by loyalty, understanding, and shared experiences.
Sample Sentences
- A strong bond is built through honesty and mutual respect.
- The siblings shared a lifelong bond.
- Spending quality time together strengthened their bond.
- Trust helped create a lasting bond between the partners.
- Emotional bonds often grow through shared experiences.
Connection to Sexuality
Bond is an important term in discussions of human sexuality because healthy intimate relationships often develop through emotional connection, trust, communication, affection, and mutual respect. While physical attraction may bring people together, a lasting bond is usually strengthened by understanding, empathy, and shared experiences.
The word is also relevant when discussing romantic relationships, attachment, pair bonding, emotional intimacy, and family relationships. Understanding the meaning of bond helps readers appreciate how emotional connections contribute to healthy relationships, personal well-being, and positive self-expression.
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