lightweight

noun

light·weight | \ˈlīt-ˌwāt

Definition of lightweight

(Entry 1 of 2)

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

lightweight

adjective

Definition of lightweight (Entry 2 of 2)

1 : 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

Synonyms & Antonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about lightweight

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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: Noun

By the end of Ronald Reagan’s presidency, Democrats viewed the Gipper as a celebrity lightweight who had hypnotised the rubes. — The Economist, "Fork in the roadShould the party move to the left or to the centre?," 12 July 2018 The FireDog Pizza – including a thin-crust version for lightweights and people who aren’t from around here – will be sold at all Giordano’s locations starting Monday. — Joe Knowles, chicagotribune.com, "Are you fan enough for the Hot Doug's FireDog Pizza at Wrigley Field?," 2 July 2018 Amanda, like me, is a weed lightweight, but unlike me, has made cacio e pepe before. — Madeleine Aggeler, The Cut, "I Made Weed-Infused Cacio e Pepe and Lost an Entire Weekend," 20 Apr. 2018 Winston Churchill had written great works of history before becoming prime minister; both Harry Truman and Ronald Reagan, though derided as lightweights in their time, filled their journals with carefully considered reflections about big ideas. — Walter Russell Mead, WSJ, "Why Trump Clashes With Europe," 11 June 2018 The stakes don’t feel high enough, partly because the strong element of satire leaves us with the nagging feeling that everyone involved (except Logan) is a lightweight or an idiot. — Mike Hale, New York Times, "Review: In HBO’s ‘Succession,’ the Family That Preys Together," 1 June 2018 The first is to buy a new Mountainsmith Scream 55, a lightweight, no-nonsense bag at an excellent price point with front storage pockets, EVA back panel, and a just-right packing size at 55 liters. — Joe Jackson, Outside Online, "Put Together Your Next Backpacking Setup for $300," 1 June 2018 Kenny, unlike either of us, is not a weed lightweight. — Madeleine Aggeler, The Cut, "I Made Weed-Infused Cacio e Pepe and Lost an Entire Weekend," 20 Apr. 2018 Pizarro has rung up a 9-1 record as a lightweight since his professional debut on Oct. 26, 2016. — John Smallwood, Philly.com, "Unbeaten Devin Haney headlines card at Philly's 2300 Arena," 10 May 2018

Recent Examples on the Web: Adjective

With a lightweight design, low center of gravity, and efficient interior spaces, Bowlus employee Wally Byam eventually took these same features and built the first Airstream Clipper in 1936. — Megan Barber, Curbed, "Aluminum trailer combines ‘30s style with modern amenities," 6 Nov. 2018 Don’t bother with other materials like marble or plastic, which always end up being too heavy or too lightweight. — Claire Saffitz, Bon Appetit, "The Best Rolling Pin Is Basically Just a Fancy Stick," 19 Jan. 2018 The Impact Driver focuses on ease of use with one-handed loading and a lightweight design. — David Grossman, Popular Mechanics, "This Discounted Power Tool Combo Shines a Light on Dim Work Spaces," 8 Nov. 2017 Its lightweight design is crucial because wildland firefighters often trek through tough terrain and cannot lug cumbersome gear. — Mark Kaufman, Scientific American, "New NASA-Inspired Fire Shelters Could Better Withstand Blazes," 1 June 2017 The coffee table had to be movable for the sofa bed to open, and this one has a relatively lightweight open-frame metal base. — David A. Keeps, House Beautiful, "This Beach House Was Specifically Designed to Be a "Mood Elevator"," 24 May 2017 Still, the 1500v3 is one of the best lightweight running shoes on the market. — The Si Staff, SI.com, "The Best Men's Running Shoes 2017," 4 Apr. 2017 This colorful lightweight camper packs 70 square feet of space (42 of which is walkable) into a compact design that's towable by most vehicles. — Rebecca Shinners, Country Living, "This Tiny Lightweight Camper Has Room For Everything You Need (And More)," 14 Sep. 2015 Typically small and lightweight, so easily portable. — Nicole Sforza, ELLE Decor, "Fine Print," 5 July 2012

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'lightweight.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.