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.
However, Americans are now increasingly leaning on credit cards to buy essentials like gas and groceries, according to TD Bank, which provided CNBC with an exclusive early look at its new credit card pulse check survey. Jessica Dickler, CNBC, 1 Oct. 2025 Sources shared at the time that Kidman was leaning on her close family members during the difficult time. Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025 This is especially relevant as the Phillies enter October because they are expected to lean on Duran for more than three outs if the situation calls for it. Matt Gelb, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025 Richter asks before leaning on a chair upside down as Slater slaps his butt again. Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 30 Sep. 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 3 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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