anbinden

Anbinden is a German verb that means to tie or bind something to another object, typically by using rope, cord, or a leash. It primarily refers to physical fastening—securing animals, cargo, or items—and can also be used in broader senses to indicate attachment or obligation.

As a separable-prefix verb, its prefix is split in the present tense: Ich binde den Hund an die Leine an. In the perfect tense it forms with angebunden: Ich habe den Hund an die Leine angebunden. Typical examples include: Er bindet das Boot an den Pfosten an. Das Seil wird an den Pfosten angebunden.

Etymology and related terms: anbinden is formed from binden with the prefix an-, a construction common in German for indicating attachment or connection. Related verbs include festbinden (to tie securely) and festmachen (to fasten). The opposite action is lösen (to untie or loosen).

Usage notes: anbinden is mainly used for fastening objects or living beings to a fixed point, such as animals, vehicles, or equipment. In figurative language, speakers may discuss binding oneself to a plan, but more typical German phrasing uses expressions with binden or gebunden sein rather than anbinden.