LEANS Synonyms: 73 Similar and Opposite Words

leans 1 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of lean

as in tilts

to set or cause to be at an angle just lean the ladder against the tree and climb up it

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Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in tends

to show a liking or proneness (for something) the family's diet leans toward greasy food

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as in relies

to place reliance or trust you can always lean on me if you need help

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leans

2 of 2

noun

plural of lean

as in inclines

the degree to which something rises up from a position level with the horizon the wall has enough of a lean that we can't set a bookcase against it

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of leans

Verb

The structure leans heavily on concrete, steel and glass, but it’s warmed by wood, basalt and marble finishes and by the way the house frames the surrounding terrain. — David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 25 July 2026 This analysis leans heavily on ADP (average draft position) and similarly priced players to determine value. — Jonathan Rubin, Charlotte Observer, 24 July 2026 Where many trays rely on their material to make a statement, this one leans into its finish. — Nina Derwin, Architectural Digest, 24 July 2026 These two key races could act as a litmus test for the 2028 election cycle as the state of Georgia leans purple in recent elections. — Irene Wright, USA Today, 24 July 2026 Instead, Samuel would fill a role that leans into his strengths as a dangerous ball carrier. — Daniel Popper, New York Times, 24 July 2026 Overall, this year’s Venice lineup leans heavily on international titles and (very long) documentaries. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 24 July 2026 But the film leans further into new territory with its leading romantic duo, taking their physical relationship to different places following the events of season three. — Abbey White, HollywoodReporter, 18 July 2026 Bond demand is softening as AI’s buildout leans more heavily on credit markets. — Robert J. Szczerba, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Noun

In winter, the adults-only retreat leans into its cozy side, inviting guests to curl up by the fireplace, book a spa treatment, and embrace the slower pace of mountain life. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 20 July 2026 The 23-year-old Vancouver native leans into analog indie rock, using story songs and confessional lyrics to wrestle with relationships, future anxieties and the challenges of growing up in the public eye. — Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2026 The Glamaker Puff-sleeve Blouse leans into that shift with its mix of eyelet and lace detailing, plus a subtle puff sleeve that adds shape without feeling overdone. — Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 4 July 2026 But this version of Zorro leans instead into broad comedy and an even broader vintage aesthetic including day-for-night shooting and a general soft-focus haze. — Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 30 June 2026 Cassetta leans toward the rational. — The Editors, Robb Report, 27 June 2026 Inspired by Japanese listening bars, the cocktail menu leans into drinks made with iichiko (the highest grade of shochu, a barley liquor), Japanese whisky, and peppery shiso. — Tanya Edwards, Bon Appetit Magazine, 8 June 2026 Designed by London studio Interiors With Art, the aesthetic leans into understated Art Deco touches; sycamore wood panelling, Murano glass lighting, brushed gold accents, and a palette inspired by nearby Hyde Park in autumn. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 May 2026 Case in point is the Koala Bear, which embraces the roots of the small living movement and leans into its strength as a portable home for one or two modern nomads. — Adam Williams may 24, New Atlas, 24 May 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for leans

Verb

That district, which used to favor Democrats, now tilts Republican.

— Annie Martin, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 July 2026
When force is applied, the pillar tilts toward the point of contact, compressing the corresponding chamber and pushing fluid through soft tubes to actuators.

— Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 13 July 2026

Definition of tilts

Noun

The riverfront includes steep inclines, large rocks and uneven ground that can be difficult for workers or machinery to manage safely.

— Sophia Buonpane, Kansas City Star, 29 June 2026
Combat travel stiffness with simple SITS exercises (shoulder shrugs, inclines, twists, steps) and consider chiropractic care before and after your trip for spinal alignment.

— Sherry McAllister, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026

Definition of inclines

Verb

But their ability to deliver useful results depends on the quality, accessibility and governance of the data behind them.

— Bernard Marr, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026
Capital gains taxes apply to profits taken from appreciated investments, and the tax rate depends on how long the investor has owned the asset.

— Sarah Agostino, CNBC, 26 July 2026

Definition of depends

Noun

Half the tracks skate along atop grooves informed by house and UK garage, reflecting Hebden’s clubbiest inclinations as well as his idiosyncratic sound design.

— Philip Sherburne, Pitchfork, 18 July 2026
The solution Ciufolini proposed decades ago while working with physicist John Archibald Wheeler was to use two satellites in supplementary orbits, meaning with orbital inclinations that sum to 180 degrees.

— Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 10 July 2026