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

• 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

Kate Spade Outlet Kitt Nylon Medium Tote Bigger than a medium-sized purse but not as large as a duffel bag, the Kitt Nylon Medium Tote is an ideal size for carrying belongings from the office to the tailgate. —Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 13 Sep. 2025

The names of multiple Democratic Wisconsin lawmakers were found on documents among the Minnesota assassin's belongings. —Lawrence Andrea, jsonline.com, 11 Sep. 2025

Americans are signaling a desire for fairness, belonging, and unity. —Brian Castrucci, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2025

Movers helping a Prairie Village man pack up his belongings Tuesday found a couple unexpected items in his basement. —Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 10 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1781, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for belonging

• prolonging
• longing
• thronging