leaning

noun

lean·​ing ˈlē-niŋ How to pronounce leaning (audio)
: a definite but not decisive attraction or tendency
often used in plural
radical leanings
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
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.
Sinclair, the second largest owner of TV stations in the US, is also eager for more consolidation, and has gained a reputation for directing its local stations to cover the news with a POV more in line with Sinclair’s own conservative political leanings. Alex Cranz, WIRED, 21 Jan. 2025 But turn the conversation from names on the ballot to issues on his mind and his leanings are clear. Cnn.com Wire Service, The Mercury News, 19 Jan. 2025 While seemingly innocuous, such interactions could reveal personal insights like political or religious leanings, health concerns, or other intimate details. Jason Snyder, Forbes, 11 Jan. 2025 Though Meta employees have expressed discontent with Kaplan’s Republican leanings, the Times also noted that his appointment was seen as a move to strengthen the company’s standing with the incoming administration. James Factora, Them, 10 Jan. 2025 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

Dictionary Entries Near leaning

Cite this Entry

“Leaning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leaning. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

leaning

noun
lean·​ing
ˈlē-niŋ

More from Merriam-Webster on leaning

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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