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Definition of tendency

tendency

/ˈtɛn.dən.si/
ten · den · cy
Adverb:tendentially
•
Plural:tendencies
•
Adjective:tendential
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tendency Lexical Profile

tendency Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An inclination toward a particular characteristic, thought, or type of behavior.

Example

"Young children often have a natural tendency to imitate the actions of their older siblings."

2

A prevailing movement, course, or direction toward a particular result or condition.

Example

"Economists noted a growing tendency toward remote work across the technology sector."

3

An organized faction or subgroup within a larger political party or movement that shares a distinct ideological viewpoint.

Example

"The reformist tendency within the party advocated for greater transparency in campaign financing."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for tendency

• Nearby Words

tenantless
tench
tend
tendency
tender
tenderfoot
tenderhearted

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from Medieval Latin tendentia, a noun of state formed from the present participle of Latin tendere ('to stretch, aim, or incline').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tendency. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tendency
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