lightweight

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noun light·weight \ˈlīt-ˌwāt\

Definition of lightweight

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

See lightweight defined for English-language learners

See lightweight defined for kids

Examples of lightweight in a Sentence

The members of his staff were considered lightweights.
among astronomers she's considered a lightweight

Recent Examples of lightweight from the Web

Read more: Often thought of as a nutrition lightweight, mushrooms supply some key nutrients, including niacin and riboflavin.

— darlene zimmerman, Detroit Free Press, "Mushroom, Onion and Parmesan Tartlets," 15 July 2017
The talent pool at welterweight and lightweight is deepest, and a 165-pound division and moving welterweight to 175 pounds could be a significant improvement.

— mike dyce, SI.com, "UFC 213: Robert Whittaker wins middleweight title against Yoel Romero," 9 July 2017
New to their extensive collection of creams is this lightweight, mattifying moisturizer that works to minimize shine and maximize hydration.

— Vanities, "Nine Lightweight Face Moisturizers for Summer," 12 June 2017
The Bolt is no lightweight at 3,580 pounds, which is 663 pounds more than the compact-class Chevy Cruze hatchback.

— mark maynard, sandiegouniontribune.com, "2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV: Life in the flow lane," 25 May 2017
A full bed of shock absorbent material keeps the shoe lightweight for high-speed performance.

— adi joseph, USA TODAY, "4 scenarios that could crush LaVar Ball's plan," 20 May 2017
NO. 2 – THE FANS Some of us are perturbed that around the NHL, Ducks fans are seen as relative lightweights.

— jonathan lansner, Orange County Register, "Lansner: Hey Ducks fans, here are 5 reasons you never leave a game early," 6 May 2017
Poirier, the No.9 lightweight, is preparing for his MMA battle against former division champion and current No.3 Eddie Alvarez at UFC 211 on Saturday, May 13 from the American Airlines Center in Dallas.

— jim varsallone, miamiherald, "Video Interview with Diamond Dustin Poirier at ATT for UFC 211," 5 May 2017
Finally, wear the black tops that are working for you now but add a colorful lightweight, loose shirt on top designed for just that purpose: a pop of color.

— ellen warren, chicagotribune.com, "Caribbean chic? What to wear at a beach wedding," 2 May 2017

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.

First Known Use of lightweight

1773

lightweight

adjective light·weight

Definition of lightweight

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

Examples of lightweight in a Sentence

it's going to be hot, so wear mostly lightweight clothing

Recent Examples of lightweight from the Web

To seal the curl, mist on a lightweight, yet long-lasting, hairspray like Ouai’s Medium Hairspray.

— lauren valenti, Vogue, "Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and More Are Bringing Back the Clueless Blowout," 19 July 2017
What’s more, the arm itself is made with lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum.

— matthew hutson, Science | AAAS, "Watch this robotic appendage give humans a third arm," 17 July 2017
Titanium is relatively lightweight compared to steel, which means higher boat speed with less power.

— bruce brown, Fox News, "Naval architect predicts 3D-printed yachts and superyachts by 2030," 14 July 2017
It's got a lightweight aluminum frame and side plate as well as an Ultimate Tournament Carbon Drag with 13.2 pounds of resistance.

— wes coast, NOLA.com, "Six baitcasting reels under $200, perfect for South Louisiana," 12 July 2017
Forecasters advised residents to reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening, drink plenty of water, wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing and be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

— city news service, Ramona Sentinel, "Temperature expected to reach 102 in Ramona Friday; Thursday's 100 degrees breaks record," 7 July 2017
But the finished product is lightweight, soft, and faintly furry.

— nina friend, Bon Appetit, "These Gorgeous Lamps Are Made Out of Edible Mushrooms," 6 July 2017
New title Wasteland Express Delivery Service attempts to tackle this problem by welding an over-the-top Armageddon setting to a lightweight pick-up-and-deliver frame.

— charlie theel, Ars Technica, "Wasteland Express Delivery Service," 1 July 2017
Equipment: The ball is a perforated wiffle ball the size of a baseball, and the racket a lightweight solid paddle weighing 6-12 ounces.

— harvey fialkov, Sun-Sentinel.com, "Basics of Pickleball," 29 June 2017

First Known Use of lightweight

1809

LIGHTWEIGHT Defined for English Language Learners

lightweight

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noun

Definition of lightweight for English Language Learners

: a fighter who is in a class of boxers weighing from 125 to 132 pounds (57 to 60 kilograms)
: someone or something that does not weigh as much as others
: someone or something that has little importance or power