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

Although the shed preserves his grandparents’ belongings, Waters doesn’t treat it like a museum. — Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 3 Aug. 2026

Prosecutors allege Williams and several other suspects held a victim against his will, pistol whipped him and stripped him of his belongings, Boyd said. — Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 1 Aug. 2026

Beyond its diverse menu, Corazón hosts vibrant community events, from dance parties to Indigenous healing circles, fostering deep belonging. — Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

Ayyad, a parliamentary office worker, has come back only to salvage some belongings from the apartment. — Jane Arraf, NPR, 1 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1781, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for belonging

• prolonging
• longing
• thronging