leaning

noun

lean·​ing ˈlē-niŋ How to pronounce leaning (audio)
Synonyms of leaningnext
: a definite but not decisive attraction or tendency
—often used in plural
radical leanings

Synonyms of leaning

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
An exuberant pastiche of turn-of-the-18th century historical dress with his own New Romantic leanings, it was snapped up in its entirety by the British department store Browns. — Nicole Phelps, Vogue, 31 July 2026 The 71-year-old actor argued political leanings had possibly become part of the equation when performances alone should decide who gets recognized. — Lauryn Overhultz, FOXNews.com, 28 July 2026 When Epstein’s appointment was announced, his political leanings – his cover letter for the role laid out an explicitly conservative vision – as well as his relative lack of experience rankled many FIU law faculty members. — Austin Horn july 24, Miami Herald, 24 July 2026 On paper, with the exceptions of North Carolina and Georgia, each state boasting a property tax initiative skews heavily conservative in its political leanings. — Paxton Honerkamp, CNBC, 21 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for leaning

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of leaning was in the 15th century

Rhymes for leaning

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Browse Nearby Words

lean in
leaning
leaning tower
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Cite this Entry

“Leaning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leaning. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

leaning

noun
lean·​ing
ˈlē-niŋ
: tendency sense 2, inclination

More from Merriam-Webster on leaning

Nglish: Translation of leaning for Spanish Speakers

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