belonging

1 of 2

noun (1)

be·​long·​ing bi-ˈlȯŋ-iŋ 

bē-

1

: possession

—usually used in plural

2

: close or intimate relationship

a sense of belonging

belongingness noun

belongingness

2 of 2

noun (2)

be·​long·​ing·​ness

bi-ˈlȯŋ-iŋ-nəs, 

bē- also -ˈläŋ-

plural -es

: the quality or state of being essential, integral, or important

a feeling of belongingness through participation in the discussion

—K. H. Recknagel

Synonyms of belonging

Noun (1)

• intimacy
• familiarity
• kinship
• friendship

Examples of belonging in a Sentence

Noun (1)

the warm welcome they received from the community gave them a sense of belonging

packed up all their belongings and moved across the country

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Safely store your phone, wallet, keys, passport, and other belongings in the two zippered pockets. —Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 23 June 2026

The victim, according to police, was robbed of his belongings and forced to walk to the other side of the parking lot. —Mike Darnay, CBS News, 23 June 2026

Others speak about wanting safe spaces defined not only by enforcement, but also by opportunity, belonging and respect. —Monica Gordon, Chicago Tribune, 22 June 2026

The hard-shell design helps protect belongings while remaining comfortable to carry and maneuver. —New Atlas, 22 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1781, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for belonging

• prolonging
• longing
• thronging