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.
Citrus Wreaths Create cheerful wreaths that lean on in-season oranges and lemons for pops of color. Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 8 Jan. 2026 Faber was unequivocal Thursday in waving off Weinstein’s contention that two of the jurors were leaned on to convict him on Haley charges. Dominic Patten, Deadline, 8 Jan. 2026 Orlando stayed in control in the third, leaning on Banchero, who went 4-for-5 in the period. C.j. Holmes, New York Daily News, 8 Jan. 2026 In theory, that would allow Glenn to lean on him for advice while also permitting him to focus his efforts elsewhere, like on offense and special teams. Zack Rosenblatt, New York Times, 7 Jan. 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 9 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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