plural lightweights
1
: one of less than average weight
specifically
: a boxer in a weight division having a maximum limit of 135 pounds for professionals and 132 pounds for amateurs compare featherweight, welterweight
2
: one of little consequence or ability
a political lightweight
3
: a person who becomes inebriated after consuming relatively small amounts of alcohol or drugs
Even at 6 foot 5 inches tall, Dean was a lightweight, and he sounded to be two drinks in, Johnson said.—
Kate Sosin
Kate Sosin1
: lacking in earnestness, ability, or profundity : inconsequential
a lightweight painter
a lightweight TV series
2
: having less than average weight
lightweight fabrics
3
: of, relating to, or characteristic of a lightweight
the lightweight championship
Examples of lightweight in a Sentence
Noun
The members of his staff were considered lightweights.
among astronomers she's considered a lightweight
Adjective
it's going to be hot, so wear mostly lightweight clothing
Recent Examples on the Web
Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 13 Aug. 2025
Both pieces are made with a soft, lightweight knit that will keep you comfortable—even if the plane’s AC is blasting—and the sweater cardigan can easily be taken on or off.
—Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 July 2025
Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 13 Aug. 2025
This flip straw-bottle-style Stanley is a favorite among Gen-Z for its lightweight design, which can be easily toted along during a long school day or sporting events.
—Jené Luciani Sena
May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 13 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lightweight
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Noun
Stay cool with clothing: Select lightweight and loose-fitting outfits for enhanced comfort.
—Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 13 Aug. 2025
Both pieces are made with a soft, lightweight knit that will keep you comfortable—even if the plane’s AC is blasting—and the sweater cardigan can easily be taken on or off.
—Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 July 2025
Adjective
Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to stay comfortable.
—Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 13 Aug. 2025
This flip straw-bottle-style Stanley is a favorite among Gen-Z for its lightweight design, which can be easily toted along during a long school day or sporting events.
—Jené Luciani Sena
May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 13 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lightweight
Cite this Entry
“Lightweight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lightweight. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
lightweight
1 of 2 noun
light·weight
ˈlīt-ˌwāt 
1
: one of less than average weight
especially
: a boxer in a weight division having an upper limit of about 135 pounds
2
: a person of little importance
lightweight
2 of 2 adjective
: having less than the usual or expected weight
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share