plural lightweights
1
: a fighter who is in a class of boxers weighing from 125 to 132 pounds (57 to 60 kilograms)
—often used before another noun
a lightweight boxer
He won the lightweight title.
2
: someone or something that does not weigh as much as others
—usually used before another noun
lightweight paper
lightweight cotton/wool/silk
a lightweight jacket
3
: someone or something that has little importance or power
The members of his staff were considered lightweights.
an intellectual lightweight
—often used before another nounHe was dismissed as a lightweight artist.
They asked her several lightweight questions.
Cite this Entry
“Lightweight.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/lightweight. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
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