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
Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 27 Apr. 2025
The bodywork is formed from hemp-fiber composites, bio-resins, and bamboo elements, creating a lightweight yet structurally formidable exoskeleton.
—The Editors, Robb Report, 19 Apr. 2025
Kiana Murden, Vogue, 28 Apr. 2025
Some are lightweight and great for lounging while others are compressive and supportive enough for HIIT workouts.
—Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 28 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lightweight
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Noun
Crocs continues to be a popular brand for comfortable shoes thanks to the iconic cushy foam that makes its footwear lightweight and easy to clean.
—Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 27 Apr. 2025
The bodywork is formed from hemp-fiber composites, bio-resins, and bamboo elements, creating a lightweight yet structurally formidable exoskeleton.
—The Editors, Robb Report, 19 Apr. 2025
Adjective
With its lightweight texture, glowing finish, and ability to safeguard against sun damage and hyperpigmentation, this has all the makings of a universally appealing sunscreen—and has quickly become a staple in my skin-care rotation.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 28 Apr. 2025
Some are lightweight and great for lounging while others are compressive and supportive enough for HIIT workouts.
—Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 28 Apr. 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 1 May. 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
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