Meaning & Definition of word "Weight"

Weight

/weɪt/

noun:

  • 1. The force exerted on a body by gravity, often measured in units such as pounds or kilograms.
    • Example: The weight of the package was too heavy for me to lift.
  • 2. A measure of the heaviness of an object.
    • Example: She checked the weight of the apples on the scale.
  • 3. A heavy object used to exert force or to provide resistance.
    • Example: He used a weight to help build muscle during his workout.
  • 4. The relative importance or influence of something.
    • Example: The weight of his opinion carried more influence than others in the discussion.
  • 5. A unit or scale used for comparison with other measurements.
    • Example: The team decided to weigh their options carefully before making a decision.

verb:

  • 1. To measure the weight of an object.
    • Example: Please weight the flour before adding it to the bowl.
  • 2. To consider or evaluate the importance of something.
    • Example: The committee will weight all the evidence before drawing a conclusion.

Etymology

Middle English 'weiht', from Old English 'wiht' meaning 'weight, mass'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

weight of the world:

The feeling of being overwhelmed by responsibilities.

light as a feather:

Something that has very little weight.

dead weight:

A burden that does not contribute positively.

weight off one's shoulders:

A relief from a burden or worry.

carry weight:

To have significant influence or importance.

Related Words

mass:

The amount of matter in an object, measured in kilograms or grams.

density:

The mass per unit volume of a substance.

gravitational force:

The force of attraction between two objects with mass.

Slang Meanings of weight

Meaning: Heavy

Example Sentence: That backpack is weighty, man!

Meaning: To apply pressure or influence

Example Sentence: He's trying to weight the decision in his favor.