# leaning

/ˈɫinɪŋ/ (US) · /lˈiːnɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/leaning
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. a preference or tendency

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a tendency to prefer one set of ideas or beliefs over another.

For teachers: a personal inclination, tendency, or propensity toward a specific opinion, belief, or political ideology.

- The journalist was known for his strong political leanings toward the green party.
- Despite her academic objectivity, her philosophical leanings were evident in the way she framed the ethical dilemmas of the case.

Usage: Often used in the plural form 'leanings' when referring to political or social views.

### 2. a physical tilt

noun · CEFR C2 · Literary

the act of sloping or tilting in one direction.

For teachers: the state or act of inclining from a vertical position.

- The old tower had a slight leaning toward the river.
- The structural engineer noted a subtle leaning in the western wall, suggesting that the foundation had shifted over the centuries.

### 3. resting against something

verb · CEFR B1

the action of resting your body against something for support.

For teachers: the present participle of 'lean', describing the act of supporting oneself against a surface or inclining the body.

- He was leaning against the wall while waiting for the bus to arrive.
- Leaning heavily on his cane, the elderly man navigated the uneven cobblestone streets with slow, deliberate steps.

## Examples

- She has a strong leaning toward modern art.
- The journalist was criticized for his political leaning, which many felt influenced his reporting on the election.
- Despite his conservative upbringing, the candidate's recent speeches suggest a distinct leaning toward more progressive social policies to attract younger voters.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.