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
Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 22 Feb. 2026
Just in time for the season, Amazon has marked down hundreds of lightweight, cooling sets that promote a better night’s sleep while also looking great on your bed—and the prices start at under $20.
—Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Feb. 2026
Essence Wiley, InStyle, 17 Feb. 2026
The shoe also includes a lightweight Sola Foam ADC insole and a Vibram outsole offering comfort and all‑terrain traction, emphasizing the style’s innovative performance spirit.
—Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 17 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for lightweight
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Noun
The lightweight LyreBird Silky Oversized Pajama Shirt is $58 off and adorned with cherries, while the LyreBird Hearts Scalloped Cropped Pants feature a charming scalloped hem in a flattering cropped cut for 43 percent off.
—Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 22 Feb. 2026
Just in time for the season, Amazon has marked down hundreds of lightweight, cooling sets that promote a better night’s sleep while also looking great on your bed—and the prices start at under $20.
—Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Feb. 2026
Adjective
Spring feels like a great time to refresh your wardrobe with lightweight options (hello, TRF Low Rise Bootcut Jeans) to wear while frolicking in the city or elevated options like these Pleated Wide Leg Pants for heading straight to date-night from the office.
—Essence Wiley, InStyle, 17 Feb. 2026
The shoe also includes a lightweight Sola Foam ADC insole and a Vibram outsole offering comfort and all‑terrain traction, emphasizing the style’s innovative performance spirit.
—Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 17 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for lightweight
Cite this Entry
“Lightweight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lightweight. Accessed 25 Feb. 2026.
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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