verb
obligate
Obligate (verb) means to force or require someone to do something because of a duty, law or moral rule.
verb
1
To force or require someone to do something because of a duty, law or moral rule.
"That progress has taken over ten years and £20 million to bring to fruition. But, as Mands explains, the journey has been one that HSG has been almost obligated to undertake. "First and foremost, this is an environmental project," she says."
— Richard Foster, New rail freight terminal leads the way (2023)
2
To make someone feel they owe thanks or a favour.
3
To set money aside so that a duty can be carried out.
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Etymology
First attested in 1533; borrowed from Latin obligātus, perfect passive participle of obligō, see -ate (verb-forming suffix). Doublet of oblige, taken through French.
Related words
Rhymes for obligate
See all rhymes for obligate →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of obligate?
"obligate" (verb) means to force or require someone to do something because of a duty, law or moral rule.
What is another word for obligate?
Other words for "obligate" include bind, oblige, hold, compel.
What is the opposite of obligate?
The opposite of "obligate" is absolve.
What are the different meanings of obligate?
"obligate" has 3 main meanings: 1. To force or require someone to do something because of a duty, law or moral rule; 2. To make someone feel they owe thanks or a favour; 3. To set money aside so that a duty can be carried out.
