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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But if a studio leans on using a model created by a company like OpenAI — like in the case of Lionsgate’s partnership with Runway — then all bets are off. — Brian Welk, IndieWire, 17 Mar. 2025 The basketball star also leans on her younger siblings, Ryan, Drew and Lauren. — Natasha Dye, People.com, 17 Mar. 2025 Burgum leaned on his experience as software company executive to lay out his view of the interior department’s role. — Spencer Kimball, CNBC, 15 Mar. 2025 But having a network to lean on can make all the difference. — Kimi Evans, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lean on

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1960, in the meaning defined above

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

Rhymes for lean on

See All Rhymes for lean on

Browse Nearby Words

lean on
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Cite this Entry

“Lean on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lean%20on. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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