I think using the image provided by Jura's first definition - 'advantage gained by being in a position...' - puts you on the right track. :) Using the original noun 'leverage' as a verb seems to be a recent convention I think? I'd sooner say "to lever sth" (which, admittedly is still using a noun as a verb).

If you are looking for a purely financial definition of "leverage" The degree to which an investor or business is utilizing borrowed money. Companies that are highly leveraged may be at risk of bankruptcy if they are unable to make payments on their debt; they may also be unable to find new lenders in the future. Leverage is not always bad, however; it can increase the shareholders' return on their investment and often there are tax advantages associated with borrowing. also called financial leverage. Definition 2 What the debt/equity ratio measures.

Hi the dictionary definition of leverage is as follows: # [noun] the mechanical advantage gained by being in a position to use a lever Synonyms: purchase # [noun] strategic advantage; power to act effectively; "relatively small groups can sometimes exert immense political leverage" # [noun] investing with borrowed money as a way to amplify potential gains (at the risk of greater losses) Synonyms: leveraging # [verb] supplement with leverage; "leverage the money that is already available" # [verb] provide with leverage; "We need to leverage this company"