dumbbell

noun

dumb·​bell ˈdəm-ˌbel How to pronounce dumbbell (audio)
Synonyms of dumbbellnext
1
: a short bar with weights at each end that is used usually in pairs for exercise
2
: a stupid person : dummy

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
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And while carrying grocery bags or water jugs can do the trick, the surest way to get stronger is gradually using heavier dumbbells to preserve the practical power needed for everyday life. David Hochman, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026 Shede Mao, 55, is accused in a criminal complaint and police affidavit of using a machete and dumbbells to slash and bludgeon the 49-year-old victim, whose name had not been formally released by the Santa Clara County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office as of Wednesday. Robert Salonga, Mercury News, 17 June 2026 The snakes have contrasting brown crossbands shaped like an hourglass or dumbbell, according to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Charlotte Observer, 17 June 2026 Brace your core and pull the dumbbell towards your torso, making sure to keep your elbow close to your body. Jakob Roze, Health, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for dumbbell

Word History

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dumbbell was in 1775

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Cite this Entry

“Dumbbell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dumbbell. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

dumbbell

noun
dumb·​bell ˈdəm-ˌbel How to pronounce dumbbell (audio)
1
: a bar with weights at the ends that is usually used for exercise or building strength
2
: a stupid person : dummy entry 1

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