Not in fact a misunderstanding of "word is bond". It means that something is a new and important idea. It has been in common usage at least since the release of the aptly titled Run DMC song "Word is Born" (1990).
Late 80's early 90's term...in the bible it is said not to swear, let your word be your bond..hence word is bond; this was at first used by
members of the 5 Percent Nation AkA 5%ers. ( Asbury Park/Long Branch NJ)
"Word is born" means "truth be told" or "the truth is spoken", as in the Logos (Greek, for "word") of the New Testament. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." (John 1:1, NIV) And then the Word says, "I am the way and the truth and the life," in John 14:6. Don't any of you go to church?