First Known Use: 1570
Dictionary
propensity
noun pro·pen·si·ty \prə-ˈpen(t)-sə-tē\
: a strong natural tendency to do something
plural pro·pen·si·ties
Full Definition of PROPENSITY
: an often intense natural inclination or preference
See propensity defined for English-language learners
See propensity defined for kids
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Examples of PROPENSITY
- Other researches are exploring how the adolescent propensity for uninhibited risk taking propels teens to experiment with drugs and alcohol. —Claudia Wallis, Time, 10 May 2004
- On the other hand, a jury might be convinced that a meth dealer who had brazenly fired a pistol through his door had a propensity for violence. —John Cloud, Time, 14 July 2003
- A central tenet of this camp's proponents is that a considerable number of biological dispositions evolved during the Stone Age, including a male propensity for making war. —Bruce Bower, Science News, 27 Jan. 2001
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Origin of PROPENSITY
(see propense)
Synonym Discussion of PROPENSITY
leaning, propensity, proclivity, penchant mean a strong instinct or liking for something. leaning suggests a liking or attraction not strong enough to be decisive or uncontrollable <a student with artistic leanings>. propensity implies a deeply ingrained and usually irresistible inclination <a propensity to offer advice>. proclivity suggests a strong natural proneness usually to something objectionable or evil <a proclivity for violence>. penchant implies a strongly marked taste in the person or an irresistible attraction in the object <a penchant for taking risks>.
PROPENSITY Defined for Kids
propensity
noun pro·pen·si·ty \prə-ˈpen-sə-tē\
Definition of PROPENSITY for Kids
: a natural tendency to do or favor something <They have a propensity to chatter.>
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