lean
verb (used without object)
to incline or bend from a vertical position.
have leant
-
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.
The family also claims the new authorities have leant on the courts to find them guilty.
From Barron's ● Nov. 12, 2025
For decades, the island's political and military leaders have leant heavily on the belief that invading the island is much too difficult and risky for China to attempt.
From BBC ● Nov. 5, 2023
Developers have leant more into multiplayer horror since the dawn of the genre, especially as it's such a huge hit with streamers.
From BBC ● Oct. 30, 2023
Though the franchise was not solely targeted at children, at least not initially—its earliest seasons aired in prime time and drew on The Honeymooners—the intervening decades have leant it a juvenile patina.
From Slate ● Apr. 12, 2017
The greengrocer who brought cabbages to the corner of the Latchmere Road must have leant upon the oar with the unearthly grace of the gondolier.
From All Things Considered by Chesterton, G. K. (Gilbert Keith)
