lean

lean · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To incline or bend from a vertical position.

  2. 2.

    Having little fat; thin and healthy.

  3. 3.

    To rely on for support or assistance.

  4. 4.

    Efficient with minimal waste.

  5. 5.

    To have a tendency toward something.

  6. 6.

    (Of a period) characterized by scarcity.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    lean on — to depend on; to pressure someone
  • •
    lean toward — to be inclined to favor
  • •
    lean and mean — efficient and competitive
  • •
    lean times — periods of scarcity

Related words

Antonyms: fat, plump, straighten
See also: leaning, slender, thin
Synonyms: incline, slender, thin, tilt

Etymology

As a verb, from Old English hleonian ("to lean, recline"). As an adjective, from Old English hlæne ("thin"), from Proto-Germanic hlainiz.