The term “lean” can have various meanings depending on the context. Here are some of the primary interpretations given in the table.
| Category | Definition | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Orientation | lean means to incline or bend from a vertical position. | He leaned against the wall. |
| Fitness and Physique | In the context of health and fitness, “lean” refers to having a low percentage of body fat. A lean person is typically slim and muscular. | She has a lean body from years of training. |
| Business and Manufacturing | Lean manufacturing or lean management is a systematic method for minimizing waste without sacrificing productivity. The goal is to create more value for customers with fewer resources. | The company adopted lean principles to improve efficiency. |
| Economics and Finance | In economic terms, “lean” can describe periods of minimal profit or resources. | The company is going through lean times financially. |
| Food and Nutrition | In the context of food, “lean” refers to meat that has a low-fat content. | Lean cuts of meat are healthier options. |
| Slang | “Lean” can also refer to recreational drug concoctions, particularly a mixture of codeine, soda, and candy, often known as “purple drink” or “sizzurp.” | Some artists in the hip-hop community have been known to drink lean. |
Each of these definitions applies to different scenarios, so the intended meaning of “lean” is usually clear from the context in which it is used.