lean-to

American  

[leen-too] / ˈlinˌtu /

noun

PLURAL

lean-tos

1. a shack or shed supported at one side by trees or posts and having an inclined roof.

2. a roof of a single pitch with the higher end abutting a wall or larger building.

3. a structure with such a roof.

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lean-to British  

noun

1. a roof that has a single slope with its upper edge adjoining a wall or building

2. a shed or outbuilding with such a roof

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Etymology

Origin of lean-to

1425–75; late Middle English; noun use of verb phrase lean to

Example Sentences

There’s the stray red dog who’s a steady companion when he’s out living in a lean-to during the summer working months.

From Los Angeles Times

Her likeness, hauled down in the war’s first year, is now boxed up in a black lean-to outside the damaged art museum.

From Los Angeles Times

Officials had also said there was a lean-to — a type of crude shelter — near the campsite, indicating they tried to escape the elements.

From Los Angeles Times

Near the campsite authorities found a “lean-to” — a type of crude shelter — made with logs held together by some cordage, a sign that the group was probably trying to find refuge from the weather.

From Los Angeles Times

It appeared they had begun to build a “lean-to” type shelter but not finished by the time last year’s harsh winter began, he said.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• hut
• shack
• shanty