leaning

noun

lean·​ing ˈlē-niŋ How to pronounce leaning (audio)
Synonyms of leaningnext
: a definite but not decisive attraction or tendency
often used in plural
radical leanings
Choose the Right Synonym for leaning

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 leaning in a Sentence

the news media are often accused of having liberal leanings despite what his athletic leanings might suggest, he was actually a very lazy kid
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.
Crooks appeared to have acted alone and did not belong to any particular political leanings. Kinsey Crowley, USA Today, 4 Feb. 2026 His son notes that political books revealed his lifelong liberal leanings, while religious texts and memoirs showed his spiritual curiosity. Cheryl Russell, Oc Register, 31 Jan. 2026 But within the past few months, amid controversy surrounding the polarizing presence of ICE agents in American cities, the former chart-topper has embraced right-wing political leanings — and has lost a slew of fans in the process. Karu F. Daniels, New York Daily News, 30 Jan. 2026 Over the course of the year, the Democratic Party regained and expanded its advantage in party leanings, a trend that was borne out in the party’s strong performance in 2025 special elections compared to similar races in the more Republican-favorable 2024 election cycle. Chris Sims, IndyStar, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for leaning

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of leaning was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Leaning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leaning. Accessed 5 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

leaning

noun
lean·​ing
ˈlē-niŋ

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