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

This version from Quince has a separate compartment for a laptop, as well as two separate sections to keep the remaining belongings organized. — Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 7 July 2026

Those living near the tracks were notified to vacate the property two days earlier and were in the process of moving their belongings to Waldie Plaza, said Gardner. — Hema Sivanandam, Mercury News, 6 July 2026

The shorts also have a zipper and flap pocket on either hip to store your small belongings, and it’s built with an elastic waistband and drawstring for an adjustable fit. — Olivia Dubyak, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2026

Descendants of America's third president grapple with history and belonging. — Briana Stewart, ABC News, 4 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1781, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for belonging

• prolonging
• longing
• thronging