Leaned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ›‹๏ธ
Add to dictionary

leaned

[lind ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Leaned is the past tense of the verb 'lean'. It describes the action of having inclined or rested against something for support. This term can refer to physical leaning, such as a person bending against a wall, or it can imply a more figurative leaning, such as relying on someone's advice or support. The word emphasizes an action completed in the past, indicating that the leaning has already occurred.

Synonyms

inclined, rested, tilted.

Examples of usage

  • She leaned against the door.
  • He leaned on his friend for emotional support.
  • They leaned out of the window to see better.
  • The child leaned into the warm embrace of his mother.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Language Usage

  • The term is often used in idioms, such as 'lean on me,' which implies relying on someone for support.
  • In literature, leaning can symbolize vulnerability, as characters often lean away from danger or toward comfort.
  • In grammar, 'leaned' is the past tense form of the verb 'to lean,' used for both physical and metaphorical contexts.

Psychology

  • Leaning can be linked to body language, conveying confidence or openness depending on posture.
  • Research shows that people often lean towards someone they are engaged with in conversation, indicating interest.
  • In a social context, leaning in during discussions can create a sense of intimacy and connection between people.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, leaning on someone signifies trust and camaraderie, while standing rigid may imply distance.
  • Certain dance styles incorporate leaning as a way to express emotion and connection between partners.
  • Historical paintings often use leaning figures to convey movement and emotional tension in scenes.

Education

  • In education, the concept of 'leaning' can refer to support systems that help students 'lean into' their studies and passions.
  • The practice of 'leaning in' during discussions in classrooms encourages students to engage and share their thoughts.
  • Teachers often encourage students to lean on their peers' strengths when working on group projects to foster teamwork.

Origin of 'leaned'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'leaned' comes from the Old English word 'hlฤ“onian', which means to incline or bend.
  • Over time, 'lean' has changed in spelling but kept its core meaning of tilting or resting against something.
  • In the past, the term was often used in a physical sense, referring to the act of resting your body against an object for support.

The word 'lean' comes from the Old English 'hleonian', which means to bend or incline. Its origins can be traced back to West Germanic languages, where similar forms can be found, indicating a shared etymology in terms of physical inclination. Over time, the word has evolved in usage, often taking on both literal and metaphorical meanings. In the Middle Ages, it retained a focus on physical leaning but began to include figurative usages related to dependency and reliance. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became common to see 'lean' used in various contexts to describe not just physical positions but also emotional and social support. The past tense 'leaned' solidified its role in the English lexicon, becoming widely recognized in both spoken and written forms, emphasizing the completion of the action.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,929, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.