ligature

1. The act of tying or binding something.
2. A cord or similar thing used to tie something; especially the thread used in surgery to close a vessel or duct.
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. A character that visually combines multiple letters, such as æ, œ, ß or ij; also logotype. Sometimes called a typographic ligature.
6. A group of notes played as a phrase, or the curved line that indicates such a phrase.
7. A curve or line connecting notes; a slur.
8. A piece used to hold a reed to the mouthpiece on woodwind instruments.
9. Impotence caused by magic or charms.

verb

To ligate; to tie.