How Do You Spell LEAN?

Pronunciation: [lˈiːn] (IPA)

The word "lean" is spelled with four letters, l-e-a-n. It is pronounced as /liːn/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first sound, /l/, is a voiced alveolar lateral consonant, produced by raising the tongue to the alveolar ridge and allowing air to pass around the sides of the tongue. The vowel sound, /iː/, is a long sound, pronounced with the tongue raised toward the front of the mouth. The final sound, /n/, is a voiced alveolar nasal consonant, produced by lowering the soft palate and allowing air to pass through the nasal cavity.

LEAN Meaning and Definition

  1. Lean is a versatile adjective that can be used to describe various aspects and concepts. Primarily, lean refers to an inclination or disposition towards a certain direction or position, often connoting a physical angle or posture that is slanted or inclined. For example, one can lean against a wall or lean forward while running. This usage also extends to figurative contexts, such as leaning towards a viewpoint or favoring a particular option in decision-making.

    Moreover, lean is associated with the concept of minimalism and efficiency. In this context, it refers to reducing waste or excess in order to achieve optimal effectiveness and streamlining processes. This concept is widely implemented in the business world, particularly in lean manufacturing or lean production, where it focuses on eliminating unnecessary steps and maximizing productivity.

    Lean can also denote the physical state of being slim or slender, often suggesting a person's low body fat or slender build. It is frequently used to describe someone's physique, providing a positive connotation of fitness and a healthy lifestyle.

    Additionally, lean can be used as a noun, referring to a type of meat, usually pork, that has a relatively low fat content. Lean cuts of meat are perceived as healthier and sought-after by those who aim for a balanced diet.

    Overall, the adjective lean encompasses various meanings, including a specific physical inclination, efficiency and minimalism, a slim physique, and a type of meat with low fat content.

  2. • Thin; slender; not fat; bare.
    • Flesh or muscle without fat.
    • To deviate or move from a straight or perpendicular line; to incline or tend towards; to rest against or upon; to trust to.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for LEAN *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for LEAN

Etymology of LEAN

The word "lean" has Old English origins. It came from the Old English word "hleonian", which means to bend or recline. Over time, it evolved and morphed into the Middle English word "lenen", which means to incline or lean. From there, it passed into modern English as the word "lean", maintaining its core meaning of inclination or inclination towards one side.

Idioms with the word LEAN

  • lean over The idiom "lean over" typically means to bend forward or incline one's body from the waist in order to see or reach something more closely. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate offering support, assistance, or encouragement to someone in need or a situation.
  • lean times The idiom "lean times" refers to a period or situation marked by economic hardship or scarcity, where resources or financial stability are limited or inadequate. It denotes a difficult period characterized by financial struggle, lack of prosperity, and reduced opportunities.
  • lean toward The idiom "lean toward" means to have a slight inclination or tendency towards a particular opinion, option, or decision. It suggests having a preference or inclination that is not yet definite or firmly established, but is leaning or tending in a certain direction.
  • lean on The idiom "lean on" typically means to rely on someone for support, assistance, or advice, especially during times of difficulty or stress. It implies seeking emotional or practical help from someone in a difficult situation.
  • bend/lean over backwards The idiom "bend/lean over backwards" means to make an exceptional effort or go to great lengths in order to accommodate someone else's needs or wishes. It implies being extremely flexible and willing to do whatever it takes to help or satisfy someone.
  • lean on sm or sth The idiom "lean on someone or something" means to rely on or depend heavily on someone or something for support, assistance, or guidance. It implies seeking help or relying on someone or something to alleviate a difficult situation or provide guidance in challenging circumstances.
  • lean on sb/sth The idiom "lean on sb/sth" means to rely on someone or something for support, guidance, or assistance, especially during difficult times or challenging situations. It implies seeking help or comfort from someone else in order to alleviate stress, solve problems, or overcome obstacles.
  • lean against The idiom "lean against" typically refers to physically resting or supporting oneself against something, such as a wall, a railing, or any other vertical surface. It can also metaphorically imply relying on or depending on someone or something for support or assistance.
  • lean back (on sm or sth) To "lean back (on someone or something)" means to rely or depend on someone or something for support, help, or assistance. It often implies seeking assistance during times of difficulty or when in need of guidance or protection. It can also refer to relying on someone's previous achievements or reputation as a means of support or credibility. Example: After losing her job, Sarah had to lean back on her family for financial help.
  • lean out of something The idiom "lean out of something" typically means to extend one's body or lean out from a specific place or position in order to get a better view or to be more noticeable. It can also refer to taking risks or stepping outside one's comfort zone.
  • lean and hungry The idiom "lean and hungry" refers to someone who appears ambitious, driven, or determined to succeed, often at the expense of others. It implies a sense of fierce competitiveness and a relentless pursuit of goals.
  • lean toward sm or sth The idiom "lean toward someone or something" means to have a preference or inclination towards a particular person, idea, or course of action. It indicates a tendency to favor or be more inclined towards a specific option or belief.
  • lean and mean The idiom "lean and mean" typically refers to a person or organization that is highly efficient, streamlined, and effective. It suggests that they are focused, resourceful, and able to accomplish their objectives with minimal waste or unnecessary elements.
  • lean on sm The idiom "lean on someone" means to rely on someone for emotional or practical support, guidance, or assistance during challenging times or difficult situations. It implies depending on someone for help or encouragement, often seeking their advice or seeking comfort in their presence.
  • lean in (to something) The idiom "lean in (to something)" means to embrace, engage, or commit to a particular situation, idea, or activity with enthusiasm, determination, and full involvement. It implies actively pursuing or focusing on something, often despite challenges or obstacles. It originates from the physical action of leaning forward, indicating attentiveness and readiness to fully invest oneself in a given matter.
  • lean forward The idiom "lean forward" means to show interest, enthusiasm, or anticipation towards something. It often refers to being actively engaged in a conversation, activity, or situation by paying close attention, being proactive, and expressing curiosity or eagerness.
  • lean against someone or something The idiom "lean against someone or something" means to rest or support one's body weight on someone or something for physical support or balance. It can also imply seeking emotional or moral support from someone or relying on them for assistance.
  • lean back (on someone or something) The idiom "lean back on someone or something" means to rely, trust, or depend on someone or something for support, help, or reassurance. Example: "During difficult times, she knew she could lean back on her best friend for emotional support."
  • lean toward doing sth The idiom "lean toward doing something" means to have a preference or inclination towards a particular choice or course of action. It suggests that someone is more inclined to choose or do something compared to other options.
  • lean out of sth The idiom "lean out of something" refers to a physical action of leaning one's body or leaning part of one's body out of a window, door, or any other opening in a structure. It implies extending one's body outside in order to observe or engage with something happening outside the structure. The idiom can also be used metaphorically to indicate an increased involvement or curiosity about something beyond one's usual boundaries or comfort zone.
  • lean on (someone or something) The idiom "lean on (someone or something)" refers to relying heavily or seeking support from someone or something, especially during difficult times. It implies leaning on someone or something emotionally, physically, or metaphorically, depending on the context.
  • lean sth against sm or sth The idiom "lean something against someone or something" refers to the action of placing or resting something in a tilted or reclining position against another person or object. It can be used both literally and figuratively.
  • bend/lean over backwards to do sth The idiom "bend/lean over backwards to do something" means to make an extraordinary effort or go to great lengths to help or accommodate someone, often going beyond what is expected or necessary. It implies a willingness to sacrifice personal comfort, convenience, or even principles to meet the needs or desires of another person.
  • lean back The idiom "lean back" typically means to relax, recline, or adopt a passive or laid-back attitude, often in contrast to being actively engaged or involved in a particular situation. It suggests being in a state of ease, contentment, or detachment.
  • lean something forward The idiom "lean something forward" typically means to tilt or incline an object or idea in a way that makes it more progressive, advanced, or conducive to further development or improvement. It suggests promoting or supporting progress, growth, or innovation in a particular context.
  • lean on your oars The idiom "lean on your oars" means to take a break, stop working, or rest. It refers to the act of resting or pausing during an activity, particularly one that requires physical effort, such as rowing a boat. It suggests taking a moment to relax or cease your efforts before continuing with the task at hand.
  • lean sth forward The idiom "lean something forward" refers to the action of tilting or inclining an object or concept in a particular direction to enhance its visibility, prominence, or impact. It implies the act of emphasizing, highlighting, or accentuating something to make it more noticeable, significant, or striking.
  • have a lean patch The idiom "have a lean patch" refers to a period or duration of time when someone experiences a decline in success, productivity, or prosperity. It implies a temporary phase of difficulty, lack of progress, or unfavorable circumstances.
  • lean in (to sth) The idiom "lean in (to sth)" means to actively engage with or embrace a situation, concept, or experience, often with determination, curiosity, and openness. It implies wholeheartedly participating or immersing oneself in something, whether it be a conversation, task, opportunity, or personal growth.
  • lean down The idiom "lean down" typically refers to the act of reducing body weight or becoming thinner, usually through exercise, diet, or lifestyle changes. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate the process of eliminating excess or unnecessary elements in various areas of life.
  • lean across someone or something The idiomatic expression "lean across someone or something" refers to the act of bending or inclining one's body or upper torso in order to reach or access something on the other side of a person or an object. It implies physically stretching or extending oneself to achieve a goal or complete a task.
  • lean on someone The idiom "lean on someone" refers to relying on someone for support, guidance, or assistance in times of need, difficulty, or vulnerability. It implies seeking comfort or help from someone trusted or dependable.
  • go through a lean patch The idiom "go through a lean patch" means to experience a period of difficulty, scarcity, or struggle, often referring to a decline in financial or personal circumstances. It can imply a time of reduced success, productivity, or abundance.
  • lean something against someone or something The idiom "lean something against someone or something" means placing or propping an object in a slanted or inclined position against someone or something for support or stability.
  • a lean patch The idiom "a lean patch" means a period of time when someone or something is experiencing a difficult or challenging phase, often characterized by a lack of success, progress, or prosperity. It refers to a period of struggle or hardship, typically contrasted with more favorable or fruitful periods.
  • lean toward someone or something The idiom "lean toward someone or something" means to show a slight preference or inclination towards a particular person, idea, opinion, or course of action. It suggests that one is more favorably disposed or inclined towards someone or something.
  • lean over backwards The idiom "lean over backward" means to make an exceptional effort or go to great lengths to do something, usually to help or accommodate someone. It implies the act of going beyond what is expected or required in order to be helpful or supportive.
  • bend/lean over backwards (to do something) To bend/lean over backwards (to do something) means to make an extensive effort or to go to great lengths to accomplish or please someone. It implies exerting oneself beyond what is typically expected or required in order to achieve a goal or satisfy someone's demands.
  • lean toward doing The idiom "lean toward doing" means to incline or have a preference for doing something. It implies that someone is more likely to choose a particular course of action or decision.
  • lean toward doing something The idiom "lean toward doing something" means to have a slight inclination or preference for a particular course of action or decision. It implies being more inclined towards one option or choice over others, although not necessarily fully committed or decisive.
  • lean across The idiom "lean across" refers to the action of bending or stretching one's body to reach or make contact with someone or something that is on the other side of one's immediate reach, typically in order to facilitate conversation or interaction.
  • lean against sm or sth The idiom "lean against someone or something" refers to physically supporting oneself against a person or an object. It implies resting against someone or something for stability or comfort.
  • lean across sm or sth The idiom "lean across someone or something" refers to the act of bending or stretching one's body in order to reach across someone or something, usually to access or retrieve something on the other side. It implies physically leaning forward or sideways while trying to maintain balance. However, it can also be used metaphorically to describe someone making an effort or going beyond their usual boundaries to reach a goal or achieve something.
  • *lean times (ahead) "Lean times (ahead)" is an expression that refers to a period of financial difficulty or scarcity. It is used to describe a time when resources may be limited and there may be struggles to make ends meet.

Similar spelling words for LEAN

Plural form of LEAN is LEANS

Conjugate verb Lean

CONDITIONAL PERFECT

I would have leant; leaned
you would have leant; leaned
he/she/it would have leant; leaned
we would have leant; leaned
they would have leant; leaned
I would have lean
you would have lean
he/she/it would have lean
we would have lean
they would have lean

CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE

I would have been leaning
you would have been leaning
he/she/it would have been leaning
we would have been leaning
they would have been leaning

CONDITIONAL PRESENT

I would lean
you would lean
he/she/it would lean
we would lean
they would lean

CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE

I would be leaning
you would be leaning
he/she/it would be leaning
we would be leaning
they would be leaning

FUTURE

I will lean
you will lean
he/she/it will lean
we will lean
they will lean

FUTURE CONTINUOUS

I will be leaning
you will be leaning
he/she/it will be leaning
we will be leaning
they will be leaning

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have leant; leaned
you will have leant; leaned
he/she/it will have leant; leaned
we will have leant; leaned
they will have leant; leaned
I will have leaned
you will have leaned
he/she/it will have leaned
we will have leaned
they will have leaned

FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I will have been leaning
you will have been leaning
he/she/it will have been leaning
we will have been leaning
they will have been leaning

IMPERATIVE

you lean
we let´s lean

NONFINITE VERB FORMS

to lean

PAST

I leaned
you leaned
he/she/it leaned
we leaned
they leaned

PAST CONTINUOUS

I was leaning
you were leaning
he/she/it was leaning
we were leaning
they were leaning

PAST PARTICIPLE

leant; leaned
leaned

PAST PERFECT

I had leant; leaned
you had leant; leaned
he/she/it had leant; leaned
we had leant; leaned
they had leant; leaned
I had leaned
you had leaned
he/she/it had leaned
we had leaned
they had leaned

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I had been leaning
you had been leaning
he/she/it had been leaning
we had been leaning
they had been leaning

PRESENT

I lean
you lean
he/she/it leans
we lean
they lean

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

I am leaning
you are leaning
he/she/it is leaning
we are leaning
they are leaning

PRESENT PARTICIPLE

leaning

PRESENT PERFECT

I have leant; leaned
you have leant; leaned
he/she/it has leant; leaned
we have leant; leaned
they have leant; leaned
I have leaned
you have leaned
he/she/it has leaned
we have leaned
they have leaned

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I have been leaning
you have been leaning
he/she/it has been leaning
we have been leaning
they have been leaning

PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE

he/she/it lean

SIMPLE PAST

I leant; leaned
you leant; leaned
he/she/it leant; leaned
we leant; leaned
they leant; leaned
I would have leaned
we would have leaned
you would have leaned
he/she/it would have leaned
they would have leaned

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