weighted

UK: ˈweɪtɪd | US: ˈweɪtɪd

Definition
  1. adj. adjusted or calculated to reflect importance or proportion (e.g., a weighted average)

  2. adj. carrying additional weight or burden (e.g., weighted blanket)

  3. v. (past tense of weight) added weight to something

Structure
weight <measure of heaviness>ed <adjective/past tense suffix>
Etymology

The word weighted combines the noun weight (from Old English wiht, meaning "a measure of heaviness") with the suffix -ed, which forms adjectives or past participles. The suffix -ed originates from Old English -od/-ad, used to create past tense verbs or descriptive terms. Over time, weighted evolved to describe objects adjusted by weight (e.g., weighted dice) or mathematically adjusted values (e.g., weighted score), reflecting a logical extension of the root meaning.

Examples
  1. The researcher used a weighted average to account for sample size differences.

  2. She prefers sleeping under a weighted blanket for its calming effect.

  3. The fisherman weighted the net to ensure it sank properly.

  4. The final grade is calculated using a weighted system, with exams counting more than quizzes.

  5. The gymnast’s vest was weighted to increase the intensity of her training.