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.
The Dodgers won the World Series last October by leaning on the bullpen to make up for their lack of starters. Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025 As well as her friendships, Nicole Kidman is also leaning on her daughters during the difficult time. Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 8 Oct. 2025 Over the years, Edition has extended this philosophy beyond its collections by introducing podcasts, short films, print essays and live talks, creating space for dialogue rather than leaning on traditional marketing. Footwear News, 7 Oct. 2025 The Toronto Blue Jays were leaning on Trey Yesavage to keep the New York Yankees’ bats quiet in Game 2 of the ALDS in just his fourth career big-league start. Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 6 Oct. 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 16 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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