Definition of Lean
Quick Meaning of Lean
To bend your body or tilt something so it's no longer straight up and down.
Detailed Definition of Lean
To bend or incline the body or an object from a vertical position toward a person or thing.
How to Pronounce Lean
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One syllable, rhymes with 'green' and 'mean'. The 'ea' makes the long /iː/ sound.
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced with a short 'e' sound like 'len'; should be long /iː/ like 'green'.
Origin and Etymology of Lean
From Old English 'hlinian', meaning to recline or bend; related to 'lend' in old usage.
How to Use Lean in a Sentence
Each example shows “lean” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“Don't lean against that wet paint on the door.”
-
“She leaned forward to hear what he was saying.”
-
“The tower leaned so dangerously that engineers considered it a structural risk.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Lean
Common Synonyms for Lean
Smart Synonyms for Lean — When to Use Each
- tilt
- for a small angle or temporary leaning
- bend
- for folding or flexing at joints
- recline
- for laying back in a relaxed position
Antonyms of Lean
Common Collocations with Lean
These phrases pair with “lean” in everyday English:
- lean against
- lean back
- lean forward
- lean on
- lean out
Common Mistakes When Using Lean
Even fluent speakers slip up with “lean”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He lean on the wall for support.
- ✓ Correct: He leans on the wall for support.
- Why: Third person singular subject 'he' requires 's' form: leans, not lean. Use base form only with I/you/we/they.
- ✗ Wrong: She leaned on the table yesterday while tired.
- ✓ Correct: She was leaning on the table when tired.
- Why: Past continuous 'was leaning' better describes an ongoing action; simple past 'leaned' suggests a one-time event.
Other Forms of Lean
Frequently Asked Questions About Lean
What is the meaning of "Lean"?
To bend your body or tilt something so it's no longer straight up and down.
How do you pronounce "Lean"?
The IPA is /liːn/. One syllable, rhymes with 'green' and 'mean'. The 'ea' makes the long /iː/ sound.
What part of speech is "Lean"?
"Lean" is a verb at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Lean"?
Common synonyms include tilt, bend, slant.
How do you use "Lean" in a sentence?
For example: "Don't lean against that wet paint on the door."