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

After the death of his mother, Jay returns back home to Boston to clear out her belongings. —Carly Tagen-Dye, PEOPLE, 3 Apr. 2026

Residents’ clothing was taken from them in some homes, while owners and caregivers used residents’ rooms as storage spaces for their own belongings, inspectors said. —Carol Marbin Miller, Miami Herald, 2 Apr. 2026

Rachel removes her wedding dress, gathers her belongings and exits the cabin. —Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 1 Apr. 2026

Her independence meant frequently working alone, traveling long distances and carrying heavy belongings with her at all times, while operating without the backing of a larger news organization that might have offered some protection. —ABC News, 1 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1781, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for belonging

• prolonging
• longing
• thronging