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

• chumminess
• closeness
• familiarity
• inseparability
• intimacy
• nearness

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

After the 48-hour period, residents will be able to return during the day to retrieve their belongings, but cannot stay overnight. —Dominick Williams, Kansas City Star, 8 May 2025

Consider bringing all your belongings in carry-on luggage. —Barbara Peterson, AFAR Media, 8 May 2025

Days later, the detainees were given a few minutes to gather their belongings before being processed out of the facility, shackled and shuffled onto a bus, the attorney said. —Laura Strickler, NBC news, 8 May 2025

Soft-shell luggage is made from different types of nylon, with Cordura nylon offering the best protection for your belongings. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 6 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1781, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for belonging

• prolonging
• longing
• thronging