It's surprising that he would 'lend his name' to such a venture. [=that he would allow his name to be associated with such a venture]
A growing amount of evidence 'lends weight/credence/credibility' to their theory. [=makes their theory seem true or correct]
A bit of grated carrot 'lends' some color to the dish. = A bit of grated carrot 'lends' the dish some color.
(..) Connelly's playing the part. Like fucking hell he's playing my part. What the fuck did you just say to me? It's my part. It's my part, and I decide who to lend it to. Usually to somebody that has fucking sticks. I left in the car, I'll be right back -Take me minutes. -I'm warming up the band now. (..)2014 Whiplash