makeweight

noun

make·​weight ˈmāk-ˌwāt How to pronounce makeweight (audio)
1
a
: something thrown into a scale to bring the weight to a desired value
b
: something of little independent value thrown in to fill a gap
2

Examples of makeweight in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Miralem Pjanic was a makeweight in that deal with Barca, which perhaps mitigates the fee somewhat and allows Felipe Melo to enter the conversation as a candidate for the worst Juventus transfer of all time. Adam Digby, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025 The suspension of pro-rel was a makeweight in a financial deal to assist them. Phil Hay, New York Times, 29 May 2025 Now 27, he was linked with a move away to Newcastle during the Euros as a makeweight in a deal to bring Anthony Gordon to Anfield. Elias Burke, The Athletic, 25 Aug. 2024 Isabella, a third-year player, could be an attractive makeweight for Jacksonville and their new quarterback as a deep threat. Jeremy Cluff, The Arizona Republic, 10 Aug. 2021 One of those players is Paulo Dybala, who nearly signed with Spurs on deadline day in August - could he be used as a makeweight if Juve's finances would allow it? SI.com, 3 Oct. 2019

Word History

First Known Use

1695, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of makeweight was in 1695

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Cite this Entry

“Makeweight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/makeweight. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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