lean
verb (used without object)
to incline or bend from a vertical position.
was leaning
-
past progressiveof lean.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
Waller said he was leaning against supporting a rate hike in September because it looked as if inflation was finally starting to trend lower.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 3, 2026
U.S. officials said earlier this week that Trump was leaning toward expanding U.S. military operations to break the diplomatic logjam.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 17, 2026
Azizi, a visiting fellow at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, said that Iran's government was leaning on its most devout supporters.
From Barron's ● Apr. 1, 2026
The jury came back deadlocked, although a majority of the panel was leaning toward a conviction.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 13, 2026
Mike had one hand on the bar and was leaning toward Brett, talking.
From "The Sun Also Rises" by Ernest Hemingway
