lean-to

[ leen-too ]

noun

, plural lean-tos.

1. a shack or shed supported at one side by trees or posts and having an inclined roof.
2. a roof of a single pitch with the higher end abutting a wall or larger building.
3. a structure with such a roof.

lean-to

noun

1. a roof that has a single slope with its upper edge adjoining a wall or building
2. a shed or outbuilding with such a roof

Word History and Origins

Origin of lean-to¹

1425–75; late Middle English; noun use of verb phrase lean to

Example Sentences

The overheated furrier rushed to erect a lean-to out of walking sticks and an antelope hide, fanning himself with one hand the entire time.

From Literature

Her likeness, hauled down in the war’s first year, is now boxed up in a black lean-to outside the damaged art museum.

From Los Angeles Times

Officials had also said there was a lean-to — a type of crude shelter — near the campsite, indicating they tried to escape the elements.

From Los Angeles Times

Near the campsite authorities found a “lean-to” — a type of crude shelter — made with logs held together by some cordage, a sign that the group was probably trying to find refuge from the weather.

From Los Angeles Times

It appeared they had begun to build a “lean-to” type shelter but not finished by the time last year’s harsh winter began, he said.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• hut
• shack
• shanty