proclivity

noun

pro·​cliv·​i·​ty prō-ˈkli-və-tē 

plural proclivities

: an inclination or predisposition toward something

especially : a strong inherent inclination toward something objectionable

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Have you always had this leaning toward wanting to know about words and their etymologies? Maybe you even have a propensity to use the featured word several times in the course of the day—due, of course, not to a proclivity for pretentiousness, but because you simply have a penchant for using a rich vocabulary. And perhaps you have a predilection for using lots of synonyms, such as proclivity (from clivus, the Latin word for "slope"), referring to a tendency usually toward something bad; propensity, suggesting an often uncontrollable inclination; penchant, meaning an irresistible attraction; and predilection, which describes a strong liking derived from one's temperament.

Synonyms of proclivity

• tendency
• inclination
• aptitude
• devices
• affinity

Choose the Right Synonym for proclivity

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

Examples of proclivity in a Sentence

showed artistic proclivities at an early age

Recent Examples on the Web

In keeping with her proclivity for stylish, comfortable staples, the actress recently stepped out in a silk skirt styled with a classic tee and leather loafers for an effortless summer outfit. —Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 8 June 2026

Known as Silver Fox and Trader Cliff for his shock of white hair and proclivity for pulling off blockbuster deals, Fletcher had a long association with the Maple Leafs. —James Mirtle, New York Times, 5 June 2026

Mendes’ archival Donna Karan dress follows suit with her recent proclivity for vintage pieces. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 2 June 2026

The Mexican government had already witnessed the Jalisco cartel’s proclivity for brazen killing. —Steve Fisher, Los Angeles Times, 17 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin proclivitas, from proclivis sloping, prone, from pro- forward + clivus slope — more at pro-, declivity

First Known Use

1561, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for proclivity

• acclivity
• activity
• captivity
• declivity
• festivity
• nativity
• passivity
• absorptivity
• affectivity
• collectivity
• conductivity
• connectivity

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Kids Definition

proclivity

noun

pro·​cliv·​i·​ty prō-ˈkliv-ət-ē 

plural proclivities

: a natural tendency of the mind or personality

showed artistic proclivities at an early age

especially : such a tendency toward something bad

a proclivity for violence