belonging

American  

[bih-lawng-ing, -long-] / bɪˈlɔŋ ɪŋ, -ˈlɒŋ- /

noun

1. something that belongs.

2. belongings, possessions; goods; personal effects.

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belonging British  

/ bɪˈlɒŋɪŋ /

noun

1. secure relationship; affinity (esp in the phrase a sense of belonging )

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Other Word Forms

• unbelonging adjective

Etymology

Origin of belonging

First recorded in 1595–1605; belong + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

For several weeks, Haitian police have been conducting a large-scale offensive against gangs in central Port-au-Prince, destroying one home belonging to notorious gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, also known as "Barbecue."

From Barron's

He said many of the items stored were sentimental, including family photographs and childhood belongings.

From BBC

Farmer Pongsri Rapan, 60, said she lost all her belongings except a wardrobe when her house was destroyed by shelling, but told reporters: "I'm not scared because the army is around me."

From Barron's

They escorted Hansen back to the locker room to collect their belongings and offered a private place to change.

From Los Angeles Times

To compound her grief, Jill has had no contact with baby Regina since June's death – and is devastated that her daughter's belongings have disappeared.

From BBC