Definitions of tendency:

• noun:   a characteristic likelihood of or natural disposition toward a certain condition or character or effect

  Example: "Fabric with a tendency to shrink"

• noun:   a general direction in which something tends to move

  Example: "The shoreward tendency of the current"

• noun:   an attitude of mind especially one that favors one alternative over others

  Example: "A tendency to be too strict"

• noun:   an inclination to do something