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.
In her fight with Highmark, Sutton-Schulman leaned on her paralegal skills, beginning with reading the company’s coverage booklet from start to finish. Duaa Eldeib, ProPublica, 10 Sep. 2025 To hit those targets, the plan leans on familiar elements, including strong emotional connections with consumers, fashion innovation and compelling experiences. Evan Clark, Footwear News, 10 Sep. 2025 The administration is hoping justices will overturn a lower court ruling that struck down the country-specific tariffs, finding the president unlawfully leaned on emergency powers. Matt Egan, CNN Money, 10 Sep. 2025 Michigan Central leans on Detroit's lower cost of living to create opportunities for workers who might be priced out of Silicon Valley or Seattle. Alison Griffin, Forbes.com, 10 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 12 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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