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

Thinking more about protecting your credit from crooks makes sense no matter your political leanings. —Susan Tompor, USA TODAY, 1 Mar. 2025

Savannah Chrisley does not hide her political leanings. —Dory Jackson, People.com, 22 Feb. 2025

The president's support and flirtation with far-right groups who have neo-Nazi leanings has also sparked alarm from critics. —Mark Joseph, Newsweek, 22 Feb. 2025

These recent dual looks incorporate Rae’s more wacky sartorial leanings too: A chaotic hodge podge of nostalgic colors and shapes, with kitschy graphics and accessories. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 7 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for leaning

• cleaning
• gleaning
• greening
• keening
• meaning
• peening
• preening
• screening
• weaning
• careening
• convening
• demeaning

Kids Definition

leaning

noun

lean·​ing

ˈlē-niŋ

: tendency sense 2, inclination