dumbbell

noun

dumb·​bell ˈdəm-ˌbel 

1

: a short bar with weights at each end that is used usually in pairs for exercise

2

: a stupid person : dummy

Synonyms of dumbbell

• moron
• idiot
• dummy
• stupid
• noodle
• loser
• mutt
• prat
• hammerhead
• meathead
• jerk
• turkey
• donkey
• dip

Examples of dumbbell in a Sentence

I feel like a dumbbell for making such a stupid mistake.

no, you're not a dumbbell—this is one of the hardest courses the school offers

Recent Examples on the Web

While not a fit for heavy weightlifting, it is designed for running or a quick dumbbell session. — Shannon Bauer, InStyle, 28 June 2026

Sell any unused, yet intact, workout equipment through your local marketplace, and don’t forget about the smaller, less bulky gear like dumbbells and stability balls. — Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2026

Weightlifting, on the other hand, uses external resistance such as dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells, or weight machines. — Jakob Roze, Health, 1 July 2026

Crime scene technicians called in to help execute a search warrant reported observing blood spattered all over Mao’s bedroom, and a machete and two dumbbells stained with blood. — Robert Salonga, Mercury News, 17 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for dumbbell

• barbell
• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bombshell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel

Kids Definition

dumbbell

noun

dumb·​bell ˈdəm-ˌbel 

1

: a bar with weights at the ends that is usually used for exercise or building strength

2

: a stupid person : dummy entry 1