hefty

adjective

ˈhef-tē 

heftier; heftiest

1

: quite heavy

a hefty book

2

a

: marked by bigness, bulk, and usually strength

a hefty football player

b

: powerful, mighty

gave the door a hefty shove

c

: impressively large : substantial

hefty portions

a hefty price

heftily

ˈhef-tə-lē 

adverb

heftiness

ˈhef-tē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of hefty

• massive
• heavy

Examples of hefty in a Sentence

He was a tall, hefty man.

Her boss gave her a hefty raise.

a hefty dose of irony

He gave the door a hefty kick.

Recent Examples on the Web

That’s the differentiator of the Dallas Market Center, which showcases everything from gifts, home and lighting products to men’s and women’s apparel, accessories, footwear and kidswear — as well as a hefty dose of Western and English products. —Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 20 Jan. 2026

Other executives and companies pay hefty five- and six‑figure sums each year to secure a coveted place inside Davos’ most exclusive club, betting a few days of access in the Swiss Alps will translate into deals, influence, and brand exposure that justify the cost. —Sydney Lake, Fortune, 20 Jan. 2026

But needing to pay out such a hefty dividend leaves them with less capital for reinvestment in an industry where capital is king. —Danielle Chemtob, Forbes.com, 20 Jan. 2026

There was no need for a hefty explanation; all my friends knew how Greg was. —Lizz Schumer, PEOPLE, 20 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing hefty

• carries a hefty price tag
• hefty price tag

Rhymes for hefty

• lefty

Kids Definition

hefty

adjective

ˈhef-tē 

heftier; heftiest

: heavy entry 1 sense 1a, bulky

heftily

-tə-lē 

adverb

heftiness

-tē-nəs 

noun