Tend-toward

verb (used without object)
1.
to be disposed or inclined in action, operation, or effect to do something:
The particles tend to unite.
2.
to be disposed toward an idea, emotion, way of thinking, etc.:
He tends to be overly optimistic. Her religious philosophy tends toward pantheism.
3.
to lead or conduce, as to some result or resulting condition:
measures tending to improved working conditions; Governments are tending toward democracy.
4.
to be inclined to or have a tendency toward a particular quality, state, or degree:
This wine tends toward the sweet side.
5.
(of a journey, course, road, etc.) to lead or be directed in a particular direction (usually followed by to, toward, etc.):
a path tending toward the beach.
verb when intr, usually foll by to or towards
1.
(when transitive, takes an infinitive) to have a general disposition (to do something); be inclined: children tend to prefer sweets to meat
2.
(intransitive) to have or be an influence (towards a specific result); be conducive: the party atmosphere tends to hilarity
3.
(intransitive) to go or move (in a particular direction): to tend to the south
verb
1.
(transitive) to care for: to tend wounded soldiers
2.
when intr, often foll by to. to attend (to): to tend to someone’s needs
3.
(transitive) to handle or control: to tend a fire
4.
(informal, mainly US & Canadian) (intransitive) often foll by to. to pay attention