1. A person or thing that binds. This is the most general definition. For example, a bookbinder binds pages together to create a book.
2. A device that holds things together. This could refer to a:
* Ring binder: A folder with rings or clips to hold papers or documents.
* Binder clip: A metal clip used to hold together papers or documents.
* Three-ring binder: A binder with three rings for holding papers or documents.
* Loose-leaf binder: A binder with pages that can be easily added or removed.
3. A substance that holds things together. This could refer to:
* Binder in paint: A substance that helps the pigment to adhere to the surface.
* Binder in food: A substance that helps to hold food ingredients together.
* Binder in concrete: A substance that helps to bind the cement, sand, and gravel together.
4. A person or thing that binds or ties something. For example, a binder can be a person who secures cargo on a ship or a machine that ties together ropes or cables.
5. In insurance, "binder" can refer to a temporary insurance policy. It provides coverage until a full policy is issued.
To determine the best definition of "binder" in a particular context, you need to consider the surrounding words and the overall meaning of the sentence.