Definition of "ligature" in English

noun

1. (uncountable) The act of tying or binding something.

2. (countable) A cord or similar thing used to tie something; especially the thread used in surgery to close a vessel or duct.

   • anti-ligature clothing

3. A thread or wire used to remove tumours, etc.

4. The state of being bound or stiffened; stiffness.

   • the ligature of a joint

5. (countable, typography) A character that visually combines multiple letters, such as æ, œ, ß or ij; also logotype. Sometimes called a typographic ligature.

6. (countable, music) A group of notes played as a phrase, or the curved line that indicates such a phrase.

7. (music) A curve or line connecting notes; a slur.

8. (countable) A piece used to hold a reed to the mouthpiece on woodwind instruments.

9. Any binding, uniting, or restraining principle or agency.

10. A spell or charm that induces sexual impotence.

verb

1. (surgery) To ligate; to tie.