The phrase "duty bound" is spelled as /ˈdjuːti ˌbaʊnd/. The first syllable is pronounced as "dew-tee" with a long "u" sound represented by the IPA symbol /uː/. The second syllable is pronounced as "bownd" with a diphthong sound represented by the IPA symbol /aʊ/. "Duty bound" means obligated to do something because it is expected or required. It is often used to describe a sense of responsibility or commitment towards a task or duty.
Duty bound, as an idiomatic phrase, refers to a moral or legal obligation that binds an individual to perform a particular action. It describes a situation where a person feels obligated or compelled to fulfill a duty or responsibility, often stemming from a sense of duty, loyalty, or commitment. The term encompasses both the expectation and the inherent sense of obligation.
The phrase "duty bound" is typically associated with a moral or ethical sense of duty, indicating that an individual feels morally compelled to carry out a certain task or fulfill an obligation. It suggests that the person understands their responsibilities and feels duty-bound to act accordingly, driven by a sense of righteousness and personal integrity.
Furthermore, "duty bound" can also be perceived in a legal context, denoting an individual's obligation to fulfill certain legal requirements or responsibilities. This implies that the person is bound by law or contract to carry out specific duties or actions, without the option to neglect or ignore them.
In summary, "duty bound" refers to being morally or legally obligated to fulfill specific responsibilities or tasks. It demonstrates a sincere commitment to carrying out one's duties, driven by a sense of duty, loyalty, or adherence to moral and legal principles.
The word "duty bound" consists of two parts: "duty" and "bound".
1. Duty: The word "duty" originated from the Old French word "deu" or "devoir", meaning "something owed". It later evolved into Middle English as "dute" or "dewte", referring to a moral or legal obligation, responsibility or task. The term can be traced back to the Latin word "debere", which means "to owe".
2. Bound: "Bound" comes from the Old English word "bindan", meaning "to tie or fasten". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*bindanan". In the context of "duty bound", it implies being obligated or tied to carry out a particular action or fulfill a duty.
When combined, "duty bound" suggests being morally or legally compelled to fulfill one's obligations or responsibilities.