inclination
UK: ˌɪnklɪˈneɪʃən | US: ˌɪnklɪˈneɪʃən
n. a tendency or preference toward a particular action, thought, or feeling
n. the angle at which something slopes or deviates from a reference line
n. a natural disposition or aptitude
The word "inclination" traces back to Latin inclinare ("to bend toward"), combining in- (toward) and clinare (to bend). The root clin- also appears in words like "decline" (bend downward) and "recline" (bend back). Over time, "inclination" evolved from its literal sense of physical bending to metaphorical meanings, reflecting a mental or emotional "leaning" toward something. The suffix -ation nominalizes the action, solidifying its modern usage as a noun.
She showed an early inclination toward music, often humming tunes as a child.
The roof’s steep inclination helps shed snow during winter.
His inclination to avoid conflict made him a skilled mediator.
The telescope’s inclination was adjusted to observe the comet.
Despite her artistic inclinations, she pursued a career in science.