belonging

noun

be·​long·​ing bi-ˈlȯŋ-iŋ How to pronounce belonging (audio)
bē-
Synonyms of belongingnext
1
: possession
usually used in plural
2
: close or intimate relationship
a sense of belonging
belongingness noun

Examples of belonging in a Sentence

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Neary’s belongings including fur coats, furniture and jewelry were auctioned later that month, with officials charged admission of 50 cents to prevent overcrowding of the apartment. Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 2 June 2026 The off-duty flight attendant relocated his belongings and went to use the restroom, but Reyes tried to grab the man’s bag off the floor, according to the affidavit. Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 2 June 2026 Other times investigators discovered a clue that had been overlooked in the decedent’s belongings. Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 June 2026 Thousands took shelter in the Kyiv subway system, some carrying pets, belongings and mattresses. Valentyn Ogirenko, USA Today, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for belonging

Word History

First Known Use

1781, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of belonging was in 1781

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Belonging.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/belonging. Accessed 5 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on belonging

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster