belonging
bih-LONG-ing
/bɪˈlɒŋɪŋ/
A secure, warm feeling of being accepted, valued, and connected to a particular group, place, or community.
Unlike 'membership,' which is formal and legalistic, 'belonging' is deeply emotional and psychological.
The story behind the word. The word 'belonging' traces back to Middle English 'belongen,' combining the intensive prefix 'be-' with 'longen' (to pertain to, be suitable, or go along with). Unlike ownership, its linguistic roots are tied to the concept of fitting in naturally or being in the right, appropriate place.
Word relationships
- acceptance: Acceptance is the act of receiving someone, while belonging is the internal emotional state resulting from that reception.
- affiliation: Affiliation is a formal or structural connection to an organization, whereas belonging is an emotional connection.
- alienation: Alienation is the feeling of being isolated, estranged, or excluded from a group, the direct opposite of belonging.
- estrangement: Estrangement is the physical or emotional separation from a group or family.
Commonly confused with
- belongings: 'Belonging' (singular) is the emotional state of being connected, while 'belongings' (plural) refers to personal possessions.
Word family
- belong (verb): To be the property of, or to be a member of a group.
- belonged (verb): Past tense of belong.
Collocations
- sense of belonging
- belonging to a group
- foster belonging
- deep belonging
Idioms & expressions
- feel at home
Example sentences
- "A strong sense of belonging in the workplace is directly linked to higher employee engagement and lower turnover rates." Discussing workplace culture and employee retention.
Memory hook
Think of 'longing' to 'be' somewhere. When you find that place, your longing ends, and you experience 'belonging.' Ending the longing to belong.
When not to use
Do not use 'belonging' to describe mere physical possession (which is 'belongings' in the plural) when you mean the emotional state of connection.
Fun facts
- Psychologist Abraham Maslow placed 'love and belongingness' as the third level in his famous Hierarchy of Needs, just above safety.
- The term 'belongingness' is often used in academic psychology to distinguish the emotional state from the general concept of belonging.
Explore more words
attachment, inclusion, affection, intimacy, rapport, fellowship
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