Leant
lɛnt
Definitions
2 meaningsTo incline or bend the body or an object from a vertical position; to rest or be supported on something.
lɛnt
To incline or bend the body in a particular direction.
He leant against the wall, exhausted after the marathon.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to peek at something secret! That's like leaning – you tilt your body a bit to get a better look or put your weight on something like you're holding a chair while waiting in line.
👶 For kids: To bend your body to one side, like when you're trying to see something better.
More Examples
The old building leant precariously to one side.
She leant over the railing to watch the boats.
How It's Used
"She leant forward to hear the whisper."
"The government leant its support to the project."
To rely on someone or something for support or help.
lɛnt
To rely on someone for support or help (figurative).
The economy leant on the strength of the manufacturing sector.
💡 Simply: Think of it like this: If you are feeling down, you can *lean* on your friend. You rely on them to make you feel better, like you are leaning on their friendship for support.
👶 For kids: To ask someone to help you or to trust them.
More Examples
The project leant heavily on the expertise of several consultants.
He leant on his experience to make the right decision.
How It's Used
"The company leant heavily on its marketing team."
"She leant on her friends for emotional support."
Past tense and past participle of the verb 'lean'. Originates from Old English 'hlinian', meaning 'to incline' or 'to bend'.
Used in historical texts, particularly in the past tense and past participle, to indicate a bending or inclination.