lean on

verb

leaned on; leaning on; leans on

transitive verb

: to apply pressure to
They were leaning on the governor to pass the law.

Examples of lean on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Now the European Union, which still leans on Russian LNG and has been reluctant to restrict imports, is preparing to roll out some measures of its own. Stephen Stapczynski, Fortune, 5 May 2024 The aesthetic many players lean on is rooted in sleek, sophisticated ready-to-wear designs that are crafted into quality garments. Essence, 2 May 2024 They got engaged in September, only two months before the singer was freed from her conservatorship, a period during which the singer leaned on Asghari for support. Tomás Mier, Rolling Stone, 2 May 2024 The Royals, who are off to a great start, have leaned on their pitching staff early in the season. Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 2 May 2024 Prince William leaning on Kate Middleton's mom during princess' cancer battle, expert says. Fox News, 16 Apr. 2024 Alongside their joint statement, Jill shared a photo of herself and Derek leaning on each other looking at a tiny pink knitted hat. Sara Vallone, Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2024 The Biden administration also needs to lean on its Middle Eastern allies—Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and, above all, the UAE—to stop funneling arms into the Horn of Africa. Alex De Waal, Foreign Affairs, 8 Apr. 2024 Bednar has shown a knack for pushing the right buttons, for leaning on his team at the right time. Sean Keeler, The Denver Post, 8 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'lean on.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lean on was circa 1960

Dictionary Entries Near lean on

Cite this Entry

“Lean on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lean%20on. Accessed 12 May. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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