lean
verb (used without object)
to incline or bend from a vertical position.
have leaned
-
present perfectof lean.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“Allbirds could have leaned in to any of these things alongside its green credentials but largely chose not to do so.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 31, 2026
Soups that might have leaned on cream — lentil, potato, corn — turned velvety when I blended half the pot and stirred it back in.
From Salon ● Mar. 25, 2026
Campaigns have leaned on TikTok personalities, singers and AI-generated content to cut through a crowded field.
From Barron's ● Mar. 8, 2026
Paramount executives have leaned into a multi-pronged strategy to scuttle the Netflix deal since December.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 26, 2026
Once, he knew, her mother would have leaned down to tend the little girl at the sound of such a cough.
From "Messenger" by Lois Lowry
