belongs
|be-long|
🇺🇸
/bɪˈlɔŋ/
🇬🇧
/bɪˈlɒŋ/
(belong)
right place
Etymology
'belong' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'belongen', formed from the prefix 'be-' plus a form related to 'longen' (to belong/long).
'belong' changed from Middle English 'belongen' (and related northern/Old English forms) and eventually became the modern English word 'belong'.
Initially, it carried senses of 'be suitable' or 'be fitting'; over time it broadened to include 'to pertain to' and 'to be the property of', which are common modern uses.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
note: 'belongs' is not a noun form; see 'belonging(s)' for the noun meaning (possessions).
—
Verb 1
third-person singular present form of 'belong'.
This book belongs to me.
Verb 2
to be the property of someone; to be owned by (used with 'to').
The old house belongs to my aunt.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 3
to be rightly placed in a particular situation or place; to fit or be appropriate (often used with 'in', 'with', or 'on').
She belongs on the team.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/12/22 02:51