The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word CEMENTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
E
M
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N
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S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "bonds" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case bonds = cements.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does CEMENTS mean?
CEMENTS noun- A powdered substance produced by firing (calcining) calcium carbonate (limestone) and clay that develops strong cohesive properties when mixed with water. The main ingredient of concrete.
- The paste-like substance resulting from mixing such a powder with water, or the rock-like substance that forms when it dries.
- Any material with strong adhesive and cohesive properties such as binding agents, glues, grout.
- A bond of union; that which unites firmly, as persons in friendship or in society.
- The layer of bone investing the root and neck of a tooth; cementum.
- To affix with cement.
- To overlay or coat with cement.
- To unite firmly or closely.
- To make permanent.