This is the 4351st most frequent German word.
gebunden
Bound; tied; attached; constrained.
In this sentence, "gebunden" refers to the physical binding of the book.
Das Buch ist fest gebunden.
The book is firmly bound.
Here, "gebunden" signifies a metaphorical binding, indicating a contractual commitment.
Er ist vertraglich an das Unternehmen gebunden.
He is contractually tied to the company.
"Gebunden" in this context expresses an emotional connection or tie rather than a physical one.