Definition

In a way that is required or necessary; something that must be done or followed.

Example

Some species of plants grow obligately in wet environments, meaning they need water to survive.

Conversation

Did you know that some species have to interact obligately with others to survive?

Really? I didn’t realize that was a thing in nature.

Yeah, it’s fascinating how some plants and animals depend obligately on each other.

Nature is so interconnected; it makes sense that they need each other.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Obligately → It is formed from "ob-" (meaning towards) and "ligare" (meaning to bind). The word "obligately" refers to being bound or required to do something, often in a moral or legal sense.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'bound' ('ligare') towards something ('ob-') — that's why obligately means being required to do something.

Visually Confused Words