lightweight

1 of 2

noun

light·​weight ˈlīt-ˌwāt How to pronounce lightweight (audio)
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

lightweight

2 of 2

adjective

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

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
This creamy lipstick provides your pout with full coverage, delivering a mesmerizing, multi-dimensional finish that is transfer-proof and lightweight. Kirsten Chanel Webber, Rolling Stone, 27 Sep. 2024 Its lightweight, nourishing, creamy texture gives it universal appeal; plus, all skin types can benefit from its ingredient composition. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 6 Sep. 2024
Adjective
Roach is tasked with doing it against one of the hardest punchers the sport has ever seen at lightweight. Brian Mazique, Forbes, 30 Sep. 2024 The superyacht showcases a sturdy steel hull, a lightweight aluminum superstructure, and the sleek lines synonymous with Riva. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 30 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for lightweight 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'lightweight.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1773, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1809, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lightweight was in 1773

Dictionary Entries Near lightweight

Cite this Entry

“Lightweight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lightweight. Accessed 3 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

lightweight

1 of 2 noun
light·​weight ˈlīt-ˌwāt How to pronounce lightweight (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on lightweight

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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