English Dictionary

Definition of “inclination

inclination (ˌɪnklɪˈneɪʃənPronunciation for inclination

Definitions

noun

  1. for, to, towards, or an infinitive a particular disposition, esp a liking or preference; tendency  ⇒ I've no inclination for such dull work 
  2. the degree of deviation from a particular plane, esp a horizontal or vertical plane
  3. a sloping or slanting surface; incline
  4. the act of inclining or the state of being inclined
  5. the act of bowing or nodding the head
  6. mathematics 
    1. the angle between a line on a graph and the positive limb of the the angle between a line on a graph and the positive limb of the x-axis
    2. the smaller dihedral angle between one plane and another
  7. astronomy the angle between the plane of the orbit of a planet or comet and another plane, usually that of the ecliptic
  8. physics another name for dip (sense 28)

Alternative Forms

ˌincliˈnational adjective

Usage examples

  • She was a dreamer by instinct, by nature, by inclination ; a de facto dreamer.
    Nicola Barker, BEHINDLINGS (2002)
  • Earth and Mars pass around the Sun on a similar plane of inclination but travel at different speeds.
    New Scientist (2003)
  • A hand signal or an inclination of the head seems to be enough to convey the meaning.
    Globe and Mail (2003)
  • They had no wish to leave the scene of a memorable Irish triumph, no inclination to return to normal life.
    Times, Sunday Times (2001)
  • In reality, most manufacturers had neither the capacity nor the inclination to ship individual items.
    John Cassidy, DOT.CON (2001)

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