recline

verb

re·​cline ri-ˈklīn How to pronounce recline (audio)
reclined; reclining

transitive verb

: to cause or permit to incline backwards

intransitive verb

1
: to lean or incline backwards
2
: repose, lie

Examples of recline in a Sentence

She was reclining on the sofa, watching TV. The theater has reclining seats. He reclined his seat so that he could nap more comfortably.
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.
The carbon buckets don’t recline much and are mounted high enough in the cabin that the top of the windshield frame will block a straight line of sight for taller drivers. Michael Van Runkle, Robb Report, 2 Nov. 2024 The business class cabin features a 25-inch-wide chair that can be reclined into a two-meter-long bed. Michael Goldstein, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024 The adjustable headrest is also a nice touch when reclining or just leaning back. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 13 Sep. 2024 Swinton reclines in bed in a bright red jacket and bold blue pants, while Moore comes in wearing a burgundy coat and carrying a navy intrecciato bag. Alison Willmore, Vulture, 7 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for recline 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French or Latin; Anglo-French recliner, from Latin reclinare, from re- + clinare to bend — more at lean

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of recline was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near recline

Cite this Entry

“Recline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/recline. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

recline

verb
re·​cline ri-ˈklīn How to pronounce recline (audio)
reclined; reclining
1
: to lean or cause to lean backwards
2
: repose entry 1 sense 2, lie
reclining on the sofa
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!