plural lightweights
1
: one of less than average weight
specifically
: a boxer in a weight division having a maximum limit of 135 pounds for professionals and 132 pounds for amateurs compare featherweight, welterweight
2
: one of little consequence or ability
a political lightweight
3
: a person who becomes inebriated after consuming relatively small amounts of alcohol or drugs
Even at 6 foot 5 inches tall, Dean was a lightweight, and he sounded to be two drinks in, Johnson said.—
Kate Sosin
Kate Sosin1
: lacking in earnestness, ability, or profundity : inconsequential
a lightweight painter
a lightweight TV series
2
: having less than average weight
lightweight fabrics
3
: of, relating to, or characteristic of a lightweight
the lightweight championship
Examples of lightweight in a Sentence
Noun
The members of his staff were considered lightweights.
among astronomers she's considered a lightweight
Adjective
it's going to be hot, so wear mostly lightweight clothing
Recent Examples on the Web
Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 23 Oct. 2025
These lightweight, waterproof shoes feature plush cushioning and a 12mm heel-to-toe drop to absorb impact during heel strikes.
—Nora Colomer
May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 23 Oct. 2025
Melony Forcier, PEOPLE, 26 Oct. 2025
The Crinkle Nylon Cinchable Jacket is lightweight and ultra-packable, as the crinkly material disguises wrinkles even after it’s been stuffed in a suitcase.
—Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 26 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lightweight
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Noun
Its combination of high voltage, stability, and recyclability positions it as a strong contender for grid storage, as well as for flexible and wearable electronics that demand lightweight, non-toxic power sources.
—Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 23 Oct. 2025
These lightweight, waterproof shoes feature plush cushioning and a 12mm heel-to-toe drop to absorb impact during heel strikes.
—Nora Colomer
May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 23 Oct. 2025
Adjective
Available in luxurious shades like apricot, navy, and coffee brown, the lightweight sweater is a timeless staple in any fall wardrobe.
—Melony Forcier, PEOPLE, 26 Oct. 2025
The Crinkle Nylon Cinchable Jacket is lightweight and ultra-packable, as the crinkly material disguises wrinkles even after it’s been stuffed in a suitcase.
—Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 26 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lightweight
Cite this Entry
“Lightweight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lightweight. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
lightweight
1 of 2 noun
light·weight
ˈlīt-ˌwāt 
1
: one of less than average weight
especially
: a boxer in a weight division having an upper limit of about 135 pounds
2
: a person of little importance
lightweight
2 of 2 adjective
: having less than the usual or expected weight
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