lightweight

UK: ˈlaɪt.weɪt | US: ˈlaɪt.weɪt

Definition

  1. adj. having little weight; not heavy

  2. adj. of little importance or influence

  3. n. a person or thing of little weight, importance, or influence

  4. n. a weight class in sports (e.g., boxing) for competitors below a specific weight limit

Structure
light <not heavy>weight <measure of heaviness>
Etymology

The word "lightweight" combines two Old English roots: "light" (from leoht, meaning "not heavy") and "weight" (from wiht, meaning "a measure of heaviness"). Originally used literally to describe objects of low mass, it later gained figurative meanings in the 19th century to denote insignificance or a sports classification. The compound structure preserves the original spelling and logic of both components.

Examples

  1. The new smartphone is impressively lightweight yet durable.

  2. Critics dismissed the argument as lightweight and unconvincing.

  3. He competes in the lightweight division of professional boxing.

  4. This lightweight jacket is perfect for summer evenings.

  5. The politician was accused of being a lightweight in debates.