leaning

noun

lean·​ing ˈlē-niŋ 

: a definite but not decisive attraction or tendency

—often used in plural

radical leanings

Synonyms

• current
• direction
• drift
• run
• tendency
• tide
• trend
• wind

Choose the Right Synonym for leaning

leaning, propensity, proclivity, penchant mean a strong instinct or liking for something.

leaning suggests a liking or attraction not strong enough to be decisive or uncontrollable.

a student with artistic leanings

propensity implies a deeply ingrained and usually irresistible inclination.

a propensity to offer advice

proclivity suggests a strong natural proneness usually to something objectionable or evil.

a proclivity for violence

penchant implies a strongly marked taste in the person or an irresistible attraction in the object.

a penchant for taking risks

Examples of leaning in a Sentence

the news media are often accused of having liberal leanings

despite what his athletic leanings might suggest, he was actually a very lazy kid

Recent Examples on the Web

This regional conservatism is similar to the political leanings of some U.S. states in the Midwest or South. —Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 9 Jan. 2025

While the House with the support of enough Democrats (none from Maryland, of course) succeeded in passing the Laken Riley Act (HR 7511), the vote certainly provided insight about the leanings of most Democrats in the chamber. —Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 8 Jan. 2025

And some worry that their political leanings will seep into a university’s culture. —Ian Hodgson, Orlando Sentinel, 3 Jan. 2025

But that ideology’s continuing hold on the Southern states almost certainly plays a role in the region's political leanings. —Robert E. May / Made By History, TIME, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

leaning

noun

lean·​ing

ˈlē-niŋ

: tendency sense 2, inclination