Meaning & Definition of word "Lightweight"

Lightweight

/ˈlaɪtˌweɪt/

noun:

  • 1. A person or thing that is lightweight.
    • Example: In boxing, a lightweight is someone who competes in a weight class under 135 pounds.
  • 2. Someone or something considered to lack depth or seriousness.
    • Example: Critics described the movie as a lightweight comedy that lacked emotional depth.

adjective:

  • 1. Having a low weight; not heavy.
    • Example: She preferred a lightweight jacket for her morning runs.
  • 2. Easily influenced or not significant.
    • Example: He dismissed the report as lightweight journalism without much substance.

Etymology

From 'light' + 'weight', first used in the late 19th century.

Common Phrases and Expressions

lightweight product:

A product designed to be easy to use and transport.

lightweight champion:

The titleholder in the lightweight category in various sports.

lightweight argument:

An argument that lacks depth or strong support.

Related Words

heavyweight:

A person or thing that is significant or powerful.

weighty:

Having considerable weight; serious or important.

featherweight:

A very light competitor, often in boxing.

Slang Meanings of lightweight

Meaning: A person who gets drunk easily.

Example Sentence: He's such a lightweight; he gets tipsy after just one drink.

Meaning: Someone who lacks experience or is not taken seriously.

Example Sentence: In the startup world, she's considered a lightweight among industry veterans.