tendency tendency /ˈtɛndənsi/

noun

1. () An attitude of mind especially one that favors one alternative over others  ( disposition , inclination , tendency )
   an attitude of mind especially one that favors one alternative over others
    He had an inclination to give up too easily
   he had an inclination to give up too easily
    A tendency to be too strict
   a tendency to be too strict
   
2. () An inclination to do something  ( leaning , propensity , tendency )
   an inclination to do something
    He felt leanings toward frivolity
   he felt leanings toward frivolity
   
3. () A characteristic likelihood of or natural disposition toward a certain condition or character or effect  ( inclination , tendency )
   a characteristic likelihood of or natural disposition toward a certain condition or character or effect
    The alkaline inclination of the local waters
   the alkaline inclination of the local waters
    Fabric with a tendency to shrink
   fabric with a tendency to shrink
   
4. A general direction in which something tends to move  ( tendency , trend )
   a general direction in which something tends to move
    The shoreward tendency of the current
   the shoreward tendency of the current
    The trend of the stock market
   the trend of the stock market