leaning

1 of 2

noun

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

leaning

2 of 2

present participle of lean entry 1, lean entry 4

Synonyms of leaning

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Noun

See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus
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

Noun 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.
Noun
But the political leanings of the district essentially make the results a foregone conclusion. — Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2026 No religious leanings necessary, this event is centered around inspirational music from professional singers. — Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Aug. 2026 Expect heavy 12 and 13 personnel — a natural fit with Sammis’ pro-style leanings. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Aug. 2026 Thanks to Reagan’s pro-oligarch leanings, his administration drove down inheritance tax requirements, pushing rates down to nearly 50 percent—leaving the heirs of oligarchs with more than enough to quickly rebuild their families’ financial empires. — Literary Hub, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for leaning

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

leaning

noun
lean·​ing
ˈlē-niŋ
: tendency sense 2, inclination
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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