v. make (someone) legally or morally bound to do something: doctors are obliged by law to keep patients alive while there is a chance of recovery.

• [with obj.] do as (someone) asks or desires in order to help or please them: oblige me by not being sorry for yourself | [no obj.] tell me what you want to know and I’ll see if I can oblige.
• (be obliged) be indebted to grateful: if you can give me few minutes of your time I’ll be much obliged.
• [with obj.] ARCHAIC bind (someone) by an oath, promise, or contract.