belonging

1 of 3

noun (1)

be·​long·​ing bi-ˈlȯŋ-iŋ 

bē-

1

: possession

—usually plural

2

: close or intimate relationship

a sense of belonging

belongingness noun

belonging

2 of 3

present participle of belong

belongingness

3 of 3

noun

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

In an Early Childhood classroom, this might include children hanging up their belongings, cleaning a spill, returning work to its proper location, and helping care for plants, animals, or the classroom. — Jose Bolaños, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026

Police said the officer allowed the man to retrieve his belongings before the tow truck arrived. — Mike Hellgren, CBS News, 23 Aug. 2026

Shared ownership fosters a strong sense of belonging and investment in the company’s future. — Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026

Since it was designated the first national recreation area in 1964, hordes of visitors have cut Lake Mead’s glassy surface with jet skis and boats, carelessly dropping belongings that may now wash up on shore. — Elizabeth Wolfe, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1781, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for belonging

• prolonging
• longing
• thronging