Leaning
ˈliːnɪŋ
Definitions
3 meaningsTo incline or bend from a vertical position.
ˈliːn
The old house was leaning to one side.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're standing next to a tall building. If it looks like it's about to fall over a little bit, it's *leaning*! Just like when you're tired and rest your back against the wall.
👶 For kids: To bend or tilt to one side.
More Examples
She leaned over the table to see the drawing.
The cyclist leaned into the turn.
How It's Used
"The wall was leaning precariously after the earthquake."
"He leaned against the tree for support."
To be inclined to think or behave in a particular way.
ˈliːn
To be inclined to think or behave in a particular way; to favor.
The public is leaning towards stricter environmental regulations.
💡 Simply: It's like when you're deciding between two things. If you're *leaning* toward one, it means you like it better or think it's a better choice. Like, "I'm leaning toward pizza for dinner."
👶 For kids: To like or want something more.
More Examples
He leans toward a more cautious approach.
I lean towards the opinion that we should start earlier.
How It's Used
"The newspaper leaned heavily towards the Conservative party."
"She leans towards the idea of working from home."
An inclination or tendency.
ˈliːnɪŋ
His leanings were always toward the arts.
💡 Simply: When you're *leaning* one way or another about a subject, those are your *leanings*. If you want to be an artist, your *leaning* is towards creativity.
👶 For kids: What you like or want to do.
More Examples
The company's leanings were towards expansion.
Despite his leanings, he was open to different views.
How It's Used
"The government's leanings were towards economic deregulation."
"Her political leanings are left-wing."
Idioms & expressions
lean on
To rely on someone or something for support or help.
"She learned to lean on her friends for support."
lean in
To engage actively, especially to participate more fully in something.
"During the meeting, I felt I needed to lean in and be more assertive."
From Old English *hlinian*, related to *hleo* ('shelter'). Evolved through the sense of 'inclining' or 'causing to incline'.
The word's use in the sense of 'inclination' or 'tendency' emerged in the 17th century, reflecting a shift from literal physical leaning to a more metaphorical sense.