binder

noun

bind·​er ˈbīn-dər 

1

: a person or machine that binds something (such as books)

2

a

: something used in binding

b

: a usually detachable cover (as for holding sheets of paper)

3

: something (such as tar or cement) that produces or promotes cohesion in loosely assembled substances

4

: a temporary insurance contract that provides coverage until the policy is issued

5

: something (such as money) given in earnest

also : the agreement arrived at

6

: a tobacco leaf wrapped between the filler and wrapper of a cigar

Examples of binder in a Sentence

The egg in the recipe acts as a binder.

Recent Examples on the Web

The auditor’s office also compiled a binder of the MOH’s assets. —Shelley Jones, Chicago Tribune, 31 Jan. 2025

Thanks to Nicaraguan fillers and binders, the cigar is a mild plus to medium strength, with enough body to pair with lower to medium-proof bourbons. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025

Owners can steer clear of foods with poor nutritional value by selecting brands with meat as the first ingredient and avoiding high-glycemic binders such as potatoes and corn. —Molly Peck, USA TODAY, 2 Jan. 2025

An example is chest binders for young people who may be using the products as part of their gender-affirming care. —Darren Reynolds, ABC News, 25 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing binder

• ring binder

Kids Definition

binder

noun

bind·​er ˈbīn-dər 

1

: a person or machine that binds something (as books)

2

: a cover for holding together loose sheets of paper

3

: something that holds other substances together

use egg as a binder in meat loaf

Medical Definition

binder

noun

bind·​er ˈbīn-dər 

1

: a broad bandage applied (as about the chest or abdomen) for support

a breast binder

an obstetrical binder

2

: a substance (as glucose or acacia) used in pharmacy to hold together the ingredients of a compressed tablet

Legal Definition

binder

noun

bind·​er ˈbīn-dər 

1

: a temporary insurance contract that provides coverage until the policy is issued

2

: a receipt for money paid to the owner of real estate or to the owner's agent to secure the right to purchase the real estate upon agreed terms

also : the money itself