Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Leant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ›‹๏ธ
Add to dictionary

leant

[lษ›nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Leant is the past tense of the verb lean, which means to incline or bend from a vertical position. It often implies using something as support or resting against it. This action can involve physical leaning, as in leaning against a wall, or metaphorical leaning, such as relying on someone for emotional support. The term can also suggest a position of vulnerability or submission.

Synonyms

bent, inclined, rested, supported.

Examples of usage

  • She leant against the door, waiting for her friend.
  • He leant on his staff while he caught his breath.
  • They leant over the railing to get a better view.
  • The cat leant into the warmth of the sun.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Usage in Literature

  • Many poets use the word to convey a sense of support or reliance, emphasizing physical or emotional connections.
  • Authors often depict characters 'leaning' as a metaphor for vulnerability or strength, illustrating their state of mind.
  • Famous works, like those of Charles Dickens, leverage 'leant' to enrich descriptions and emotions of characters.

Cultural References

  • 'Leant' appears frequently in music, where artists use the action of leaning to symbolize struggle or support.
  • Artistic representations often feature figures leaning against objects, portraying a natural, relaxed demeanor.
  • In many cultures, leaning can signify rest, trust, or even subtle rebellion, depending on the context.

Psychology

  • The act of leaning can signal comfort or confidence in a social setting, showcasing trust in others around you.
  • Body language experts note that people leaning towards each other during conversations indicates engagement and interest.
  • Leaning as a posture can also influence one's emotional state, where relaxed leaning can promote tranquility.

Modern Usage

  • In contemporary speech, phrases like 'lean into' have emerged, suggesting embracing challenges or opportunities.
  • The word has adapted to contexts in technology where 'lean' strategies are employed in startup cultures, signaling efficiency.
  • In casual conversation, people often use 'leant' to signify choice and preference, as in leaning towards a particular viewpoint.

Origin of 'leant'

Main points about word origin

  • This word comes from the Old English word 'hlฤ“anian,' which means to bend or incline.
  • The shift from 'lean' to 'leant' is a typical pattern in English verbs, particularly irregular ones.
  • In Middle English, the word often appeared in forms like 'lened' before evolving into its modern usage.

The word 'lean' originates from the Old English word 'hlฤ“anian', meaning 'to lean, incline'. This term has Germanic roots, linked to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as the Old Norse 'hlynna' and Middle Dutch 'linnen'. The transformation to 'leant' as the past tense is a result of the strong verb conjugation pattern in English. In Middle English, the past form began to appear as 'lente' or 'lant', but the modern form 'leant' took shape around the 16th century. The use of 'lean' has evolved to encompass both physical and metaphorical meanings, reflecting the importance of support and reliance in human relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,567, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.