Much obliged means that whatever was done is appreciated. Literally, it could be extended to mean that the person that says "Much obliged" now owes the other a favor. That the one that is obliged is under an
obligation to
pay back. Most people wouldn't expect a return favor though.
If a man is given a ride
into town, when he gets
out of the car, he might say "
Much obliged". That would mean: "thank you for the ride. I am appreciative"
