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 once they’re installed, these technologies are largely insulated from geopolitical events, as Pakistan has proved in recent weeks by leaning on solar while neighboring Bangladesh suffers from skyrocketing gas prices. Tim McDonnell, semafor.com, 27 Mar. 2026 The Royals will continue to lean on Perez behind the plate. Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 27 Mar. 2026 Cranking up the torque and leaning on Sport or Turbo mode will drain it faster than sticking to Eco. Erica Zazo, Outside, 27 Mar. 2026 Ultimately, a lack of Democratic support for weakening the filibuster prevented them from passing that legislation, but Republicans were also vehemently opposed and leaned on arguments about protecting states’ rights. David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 26 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 31 Mar. 2026.

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