belonging

noun

be·​long·​ing bi-ˈlȯŋ-iŋ 

bē-

1

: possession

—usually used in plural

2

: close or intimate relationship

a sense of belonging

belongingness noun

Synonyms of belonging

• intimacy
• familiarity
• kinship
• friendship

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

Speaking of unexpected spills, the Jarlink 18-pack Waterproof Zipper Bags offer peace of mind on the go, helping ensure that any liquids stay securely contained and don’t leak onto your belongings. — Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 30 June 2026

Meanwhile, Kallmann asserts that his father, Hartmut, always maintained that the family art collection had been intact when the Nazi’s rose to power, and all the family’s belongings were stolen soon after. — Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 29 June 2026

Pride month may be ending, but for many LGBTIQ youth in Baltimore, the need for acceptance and belonging doesn't end on June 30. — Crystal McQuay, CBS News, 29 June 2026

Nickie and PatchesDella Varga Nickie’s belongings were left behind at a house in DeFuniak Springs in the Florida Panhandle. — Meghan O'Brien, NBC news, 29 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1781, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for belonging

• prolonging
• longing
• thronging