lean on

verb

leaned on; leaning on; leans on

transitive verb

: to apply pressure to
They were leaning on the governor to pass the law.

Examples of lean on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Throughout this difficult time, the Eastland family is leaning on the wider camp community for support. Hilary Shenfeld, People.com, 12 July 2025 New Zealand, under new head coach Scott Robertson, leaned on a veteran core to control the match, including standout performances from Ardie Savea, Richie Mo'unga, and Beauden Barrett. Kilty Cleary, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 July 2025 At the convention, the organization will be leaning on participants to guide the NAACP’s path in its fight against the president and his proposed and enacted policies. Charlotte Observer, 11 July 2025 For now, Samsung is leaning on hardware upgrades and AI to differentiate its phones from the growing competition. Cnn.com Wire Service, Mercury News, 10 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for lean on

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lean on was circa 1960

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Cite this Entry

“Lean on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lean%20on. Accessed 20 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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