Main Entry: leaning

Function: noun

Date: 15th century

: a definite but not decisive attraction or tendency —often used in plural <radical leanings>

synonyms leaning, propensity, proclivity, penchant mean a strong instinct or liking for something. leaning suggests a liking or attraction not strong enough to be decisive or uncontrollable <a student with artistic leanings>. propensity implies a deeply ingrained and usually irresistible inclination <a propensity to offer advice>. proclivity suggests a strong natural proneness usually to something objectionable or evil <a proclivity for violence>. penchant implies a strongly marked taste in the person or an irresistible attraction in the object <a penchant for taking risks>.