lean

Definition

To lean means to bend your body or move something so it rests at an angle. As an adjective, lean means thin and not fat, and it can also describe meat with little fat.

Usage & Nuances

As a verb, common patterns are 'lean on', 'lean against', and 'lean over'. 'Lean' as 'thin' is neutral to positive, while 'skinny' can sound negative. In business or tech, 'lean' can also mean efficient and using few resources, as in 'a lean team'.

Example Sentences