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.
But sending Cowan out second in the shootout suggests Berube has the confidence in his rookie to lean on him for more. Joshua Kloke, New York Times, 15 Mar. 2026 Boston, which sits just under the NBA’s luxury tax line, has leaned on familiar faces to patch together the back end of its roster. Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 14 Mar. 2026 There is risk in a plan to lean on the bullpen. Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Mar. 2026 Reportedly, leaning on friends, like Priscilla Presley. Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 14 Mar. 2026 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 22 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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