dumbbell

noun

dumb·​bell ˈdəm-ˌbel How to pronounce dumbbell (audio)
1
: a short bar with weights at each end that is used usually in pairs for exercise
2
: a stupid person : dummy

Examples of dumbbell in a Sentence

I feel like a dumbbell for making such a stupid mistake. no, you're not a dumbbell—this is one of the hardest courses the school offers
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In 2025, the largest recall reported to CPSC involved exercise equipment, specifically dumbbells. Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Sep. 2025 Row the dumbbell up towards your chest, squeezing your shoulder blades together. Jakob Roze, Health, 8 Sep. 2025 Grip the dumbbell in a palm-down position. Aubrey Bailey, Verywell Health, 8 Sep. 2025 Multiple mirrors lined the walls alongside the reformers, with each machine accompanied by a mat and a Bosu ball, while a weight rack sat in a corner, no dumbbell heavier than 10 pounds. Leah Asmelash, CNN Money, 7 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dumbbell

Word History

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dumbbell was in 1775

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Cite this Entry

“Dumbbell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dumbbell. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

dumbbell

noun
dumb·​bell ˈdəm-ˌbel How to pronounce dumbbell (audio)
1
: a bar with weights at the ends that is usually used for exercise or building strength
2
: a stupid person : dummy entry 1

More from Merriam-Webster on dumbbell

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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