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

Derived Forms

• unbelonging
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of belonging

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

Explanation

Belonging is a sense of fitting in or feeling like you are an important member of a group. A really close family gives each of its members a strong sense of belonging. When you belong, you are an official part of a group ("She belongs to the French club") or you're compatible with certain people or suited to a specific place ("I just belong in nature"). A feeling of belonging describes this sense of truly fitting or meshing, especially with friends, family members, or other sympathetic folks.

Example Sentences

These community institutions address specific problems while fostering a sense of belonging.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

Nearly 600 ships suspected of belonging to the fleet are subject to European Union sanctions.

From Barron's • Jun. 1, 2026

And earlier in the conflict, Iran reportedly charged tolls for the safe passage of several ships or allowed the transit of ships belonging to friendly nations after direct negotiations.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 1, 2026

Noir fans will recognize the title as belonging to a short story by William Irish, the pen name of that master of unease, Cornell Woolrich.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026

Wilderness Adventures will always mean belonging to a crew, a team.

From "Paradise on Fire" by Jewell Parker Rhodes