Lean

/ˈliːn/ · verb

Meaning

(intransitive) To incline, deviate, or bend, from a vertical position; to be in a position thus inclining or deviating..

Definitions by Sense

1. (intransitive) To incline, deviate, or bend, from a vertical position; to be in a position thus inclining or deviating.
2. (copulative) To incline in opinion or desire; to conform in conduct; often with to, toward, etc.
3. (Followed by against, on, or upon) To rest or rely, for support, comfort, to use as a hard surface for writing, etc.
4. To hang outwards.
5. To press against.
6. (of an object taller than its width and depth) An inclination away from the vertical.
7. (of a person or animal) Slim; not fleshy.
8. (of meat) Having little fat.

Example Sentences

a leaning column

She leaned out of the window.

I’m leaning towards voting Conservative in the next election.

The Hispanic vote leans Democratic.

But you ſay they do not accept of them, but delight rather to lean to their old Cuſtoms and Brehon Laws, though they be more unjuſt and alſo more inconvenient for the common People, as by your late Relation of them I have gathered.

He lean'd not on his fathers but himself.

The slightest effort made the patient cough. He would stand leaning on a stick and holding a hand to his side, and when the paroxysm had passed it left him shaking.

Oppreſs'd with Anguiſh, panting, and o'reſpent, / His fainting Limbs against an Oak he leant.

Synonyms for lean

Antonyms for lean

Related Words

Word Forms

• leans
• leaning
• leaned
• leant
• leaner
• leanest

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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