bonding
UK: ˈbɒndɪŋ | US: ˈbɑːndɪŋ
n. the process of forming a close emotional or physical connection
n. (chemistry) the joining of atoms or molecules to form a stable structure
v. present participle of "bond" (to establish a connection or relationship)
The root "bond" traces back to Old English bendan ("to bind"), influenced by Old Norse band ("a fetter or tie"). The suffix "-ing" is a productive English nominalizer, turning verbs into nouns denoting action or result. Together, "bonding" literally means "the act of binding," reflecting both emotional ties (e.g., social bonding) and chemical bonds (e.g., covalent bonding). The word’s dual meanings emerged from metaphorical extensions of physical binding to abstract connections.
Parent-child bonding is crucial for emotional development.
Hydrogen bonding gives water its unique properties.
The team-building exercise strengthened employee bonding.
In chemistry, ionic bonding involves electron transfer.
Shared experiences can facilitate bonding among strangers.