View synonyms for belong

belong

[bih-lawng, -long]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

verb (used without object)

to be in the relation of a member, adherent, inhabitant, etc. (usually followed byto ).
He belongs to the Knights of Columbus.
to have the proper qualifications, especially social qualifications, to be a member of a group.
You don't belong in this club.
to be proper or due; be properly or appropriately placed, situated, etc..
Books belong in every home. This belongs on the shelf. He is a statesman who belongs among the great.

verb phrase

belong to
1. to be the property of.
  The book belongs to her.
2. to be a part or adjunct of.
  That cover belongs to this jar.

belong

/ bɪˈlɒŋ /

verb

(foll by to) to be the property or possession (of)
(foll by to) to be bound to (a person, place, or club) by ties of affection, dependence, allegiance, or membership
to be classified (with)
this plant belongs to the daisy family
(foll by to) to be a part or adjunct (of)
this top belongs to the smaller box
to have a proper or usual place
that plate belongs in the cupboard
informal, to be suitable or acceptable, esp socially
although they were rich, they just didn't belong

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Word History and Origins

Origin of belong¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English belongen, from be- be- + longen “to belong,” verb derivative of long (adjective), Old English gelang “belonging to, dependent on”; along ( def. ), long ³ ( def. )

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Word History and Origins

Origin of belong¹

C14 belongen , from _be- (intensive) + longen ; related to Old High German bilangēn to reach; see _long ³

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Idioms and Phrases

see to the victor belong the spoils.

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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The family's few belongings are neatly stashed in piles of bags along the walls.

Related Words

belomancy belonging

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