lean crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "lean", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "lean crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
THIN: Having little or no fat; slender.
TILT: To cause to lean, incline, slope, or cant.
5 Letters
SLANT: To incline or cause to incline from a horizontal or vertical line.
SPARE: Lean or thin; not fleshy, often implying a healthy or athletic build.
6 Letters
DEPEND: To rely on someone or something, as in 'lean on' for support.
MEAGER: Lacking in quantity or quality; very small or insufficient. Can describe a lean meal.
7 Letters
INCLINE: To deviate from the vertical or horizontal; to slope or cause to slope.
More About "lean crossword puzzle clue"
The clue "lean" is a classic example of a crossword clue that can have multiple interpretations, making it both challenging and rewarding. Its primary meanings revolve around physical inclination or a state of being thin or sparse. For instance, a "lean" structure might TILT or SLANT, while a "lean" physique might be THIN or SPARE. Understanding these dual meanings is key to unlocking the correct answer in your puzzle.
Crossword setters often use 'lean' to test your vocabulary and ability to consider context. Depending on the surrounding letters or other clues in the puzzle, 'lean' could refer to the act of supporting oneself (like to DEPEND on something) or even describe a MEAGER resource. Always consider the nuance of the clue and how it fits the overall theme of the puzzle you are working on.
Our goal is to provide not just the answers, but also the insights into why certain words fit. This helps you not only solve the current puzzle but also improve your general crossword-solving skills for future challenges. Explore the different lengths provided above to match your specific grid requirements.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms: For a word like "lean," think of all its synonyms across different contexts. Words like "thin," "slope," "depend," and "sparse" are all related and could be potential answers.
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities and helps you focus on relevant solutions.
- Look for Figurative Meanings: Some crossword clues use words figuratively. "Lean" could mean to 'lean on' someone for support (DEPEND) rather than just a physical inclination or a lack of fat.
- Utilize Cross-References: If you've solved other clues that intersect with your "lean" word, use those confirmed letters as valuable hints to determine the correct answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common meanings of 'lean' in crosswords?
The clue 'lean' often refers to two main concepts: either physical inclination or slope (like TILT, SLANT, INCLINE) or a state of thinness or sparsity (like THIN, SPARE, MEAGER).
How does word length help solve 'lean' clues?
Word length is crucial! For instance, if you need a 4-letter word for 'lean', TILT or THIN are strong candidates. If it's a 7-letter word, INCLINE might be the answer. Always consider the available spaces in your grid.
Are there figurative uses of 'lean' in crosswords?
Yes, 'lean' can also refer to depending on someone or something (as in LEAN ON, where DEPEND would be the answer), or an economy that is 'lean' meaning it is not flourishing or is experiencing a downturn.