incline
incline Lexical Profile
incline Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To feel willing or favorably disposed toward an action, belief, or attitude; to cause someone to have a particular tendency or disposition.
"Recent economic data inclines many analysts to predict a gradual recovery over the next quarter."
To lean, slant, or slope at an angle from a vertical or horizontal line.
"The ancient stone tower inclines slightly to the south due to centuries of settling soil."
To bend or bow the head or body forward, especially as a sign of respect, greeting, or assent.
"The judge inclined her head in acknowledgment as the witness stepped down from the stand."
• noun
An inclined surface or plane; a slope, gradient, or ramp, especially on a road or railway.
"The cyclists shifted into their lowest gears as they began pedaling up the steep incline."
Word Nuance & Usage
'Incline' is a heteronym: as a verb, the stress falls on the second syllable (in-CLINE), whereas as a noun, the stress usually falls on the first syllable (IN-cline).
• Rhymes for incline
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from Old French 'encliner', from Latin 'inclinare' ('to cause to lean, bend, or turn'), formed from 'in-' ('toward, upon') and 'clinare' ('to lean or bend'), which shares a Proto-Indo-European root with English 'lean' and Greek 'klinein'.