Definition of "lean" []

To bend or slant away from the vertical. (verb-intransitive)
To incline the weight of the body so as to be supported: leaning against the railing. See Synonyms at slant. (verb-intransitive)
To rely for assistance or support: Lean on me for help. (verb-intransitive)
To have a tendency or preference: a government that leans toward fascism. (verb-intransitive)
Informal To exert pressure: The boss is leaning on us to meet the deadline. (verb-intransitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "lean" in a sentence

"I use the word lean to get runners to engage the assistance of gravity by falling forward with the full length of their body."
"Like cave dwellers huddled around a fire, the nighthawks of the title lean into the counter of a late-night diner for safety."
"With funding from the state and federal government, and from fees charged to clients, it advises Carolina furniture manufacturers, pharmaceutical and medical firms, and other companies how to achieve what it calls lean manufacturing."

Words like "lean"

boney conceal deficient gaunt haggard hollow-eyed incline

insufficient lank lanky leaned meager shrivelled skinny

slender slender-waisted slight slim spare sunken-eyed svelte

thin twiglike underweight unprofitable