incline 1 of 2

as in slope
the degree to which something rises up from a position level with the horizon the steep incline of the hill meant that it was impossible to ride a bicycle up it

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incline

2 of 2

verb

1
as in to slope
to set or cause to be at an angle carefully inclined the ladder against the house

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2
as in to tend
to show a liking or proneness (for something) a good restaurant for diners who incline to spicy food

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word incline different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of incline are bias, dispose, and predispose. While all these words mean "to influence one to have or take an attitude toward something," incline implies a tendency to favor one of two or more actions or conclusions.

I incline to agree

In what contexts can bias take the place of incline?

In some situations, the words bias and incline are roughly equivalent. However, bias suggests a settled and predictable leaning in one direction and connotes unfair prejudice.

the experience biased him against foreigners

When could dispose be used to replace incline?

The words dispose and incline can be used in similar contexts, but dispose suggests an affecting of one's mood or temper so as to incline one toward something.

her nature disposes her to trust others

When would predispose be a good substitute for incline?

The words predispose and incline are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, predispose implies the operation of a disposing influence well in advance of the opportunity to manifest itself.

does fictional violence predispose them to accept real violence?

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of incline
Noun
Steinwald has worked with trainers to build stamina and endurance for inclines and elevation. Nicole Blanchard, Idaho Statesman, 4 June 2025 Situated on an incline in Echo Park, Michelle Huneven’s house is cozy in all the right ways: Kilim rugs, an invitingly plush couch, a kitchen that is used for more than just putting on the coffee. Marc Weingarten, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2025
Verb
Though the rain forced attendees to dress fairly practically (in rain jackets, hiking boots, and the like), this being New York, the more creatively inclined still embraced the moment. Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 15 June 2025 The Senate Commerce committee reportedly is considering restoring $4 billion cut from NASA’s budget for SLS, and the Trump administration may not be inclined to fight them. Jeremy Bogaisky, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for incline
Recent Examples of Synonyms for incline
Noun
  • Throughout, the cast of 17 exudes an unmistakable enthusiasm for the material, the onstage electricity radiating up the alpine slopes of the Guthrie’s expansive Wurtele Thrust.
    Rob Hubbard, Twin Cities, 28 June 2025
  • The positive slope on the WMA of the OBV and HPI is not giving any warning signs of a top.
    Tom Aspray, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025
Verb
  • On monthly Red Mirror Party nights, the whole space tilts into extravagance: live shows, flowing Champagne, and a dress code best described as ‘shiny’.
    Lela London, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
  • In another clip later shared to TikTok, Sandy can be seen tilting her head back and forth at the TV, as Annie sings about her own dog.
    Rachael O'Connor, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 June 2025
Verb
  • His turnover rate is sky high, which tends to be a bad indicator.
    Sam Vecenie, New York Times, 26 June 2025
  • In fact, a 2023 study published in the European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education found that those in stable, intimate relationships tend to experience higher psychological well-being and have a better response to stress.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • The inclination of those operating from this skillset is to evaluate the interrelationships and interconnections within and between steps, processes, systems and people.
    Terina Allen, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
  • Marseille’s artistic inclination is matched by an obsession with food which, typically, is very different from what appears on plates in the rest of France.
    The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 20 June 2025
Verb
  • For example, under President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo from 2001 to 2010, the Philippines leaned toward China.
    Yuen Foong Khong, Foreign Affairs, 24 June 2025
  • With the exception of Tilson, the candidates generally lean left, and their supporters may be more likely to rank Mamdani than Cuomo down ballot.
    Ben Adler, USA Today, 24 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Incline.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/incline. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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