inclines
|in/cline|
/ˈɪn.klaɪn/
(incline)
lean or slope
Etymology
'incline' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'inclinare', where 'in-' meant 'in, into' and 'clinare' meant 'to bend or lean'.
'incline' changed from Latin 'inclinare' into Old French 'incliner' and Middle English 'inclinen' (or 'incline'), eventually becoming the modern English word 'incline'.
Initially, it meant 'to bend or lean', but over time it also developed the figurative sense 'to be disposed toward or favor' as in 'to incline to a view'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'incline': a slope, sloping surface, or an upward/downward gradient
The inclines on the trail were steep and tiring.
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Noun 2
plural of 'incline' in the sense of tendencies or natural leanings
Her inclines toward creative work were clear from an early age.
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Verb 1
third person singular present of 'incline' (intransitive): to slope or lean in a direction
The path inclines gently toward the river.
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Verb 2
third person singular present of 'incline' (transitive): to cause to lean or to influence someone toward a particular action or opinion (incline someone to do something)
Her calm explanation inclines him to accept the proposal.
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Last updated: 2025/10/06 21:11