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 • Nov. 5, 2025

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 • Sep. 1, 2023

Before impending nuclear annihilation, a husband paints the windows white and builds a lean-to shelter while his wife frets about his staining the curtains and marking the wallpaper.

From New York Times • Aug. 10, 2022

Sleeping in a lean-to on the property, Bran is made from adolescence onward to earn her keep by helping take care of the plants.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 7, 2022

At the winter cabin, Deydey had built a rough lean-to and attached it alongside the northern wall.

From "The Birchbark House" by Louise Erdrich

Related Words

• hut
• shack
• shanty