lean-to

1 of 2

noun

ˈlēn-ˌtü How to pronounce lean-to (audio)
plural lean-tos ˈlēn-ˌtüz How to pronounce lean-to (audio)
Synonyms of lean-tonext
1
: a wing or extension of a building having a lean-to roof
2
: a rough shed or shelter with a lean-to roof

lean-to

2 of 2

adjective

: having only one slope or pitch
a lean-to roof
see roof illustration

Examples of lean-to in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
The old fence was in bad shape, too, being held up on one side by a lean-to. — Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2026 The human remains were found alongside cooking pans, food items, clothing and a fabric lean-to. — Daniel S. Levine, PEOPLE, 6 May 2026
Adjective
The hardshell takes a little push before the struts take over and open it into full lean-to position. — New Atlas, 13 Dec. 2025 No one quite knows how—imagine trying to arrange several Volvos in a lean-to shape in a time before the wheel—or why. — Josh Condon, Robb Report, 5 Mar. 2023 See All Example Sentences for lean-to

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1649, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lean-to was in the 15th century

Rhymes for lean-to

See All Rhymes for lean-to

Browse Nearby Words

leant
lean-to
Lea oak
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lean-to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lean-to. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lean-to

1 of 2 noun
ˈlēn-ˌtü
plural lean-tos
1
: a wing of a building having a lean-to roof
2
: a rough shed or shelter having a lean-to roof

lean-to

2 of 2 adjective
: having only one slope or pitch
lean-to roof

More from Merriam-Webster on lean-to

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for lean-to

Nglish: Translation of lean-to for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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