lightweight

[ lahyt-weyt ]

adjective

1. light in weight.
2. being lighter in weight, texture, etc., than another item or object of identical use, quality, or function: a lightweight alloy for ship construction.

   a lightweight topcoat;

   a lightweight alloy for ship construction.

3. without seriousness of purpose; trivial or trifling:

   lightweight reading.

4. of or relating to a lightweight:

   He's the new lightweight contender.

5. (of a horse, especially a hunter) able to carry up to 165 pounds (75 kilograms).

noun

1. a person of less than average weight.
2. Informal. a person who is of little influence, importance, or effect.
3. a boxer or other contestant intermediate in weight between a featherweight, and a welterweight, especially a professional boxer weighing between 126 and 135 pounds (56.7–61 kilograms).

lightweight

/ ˈlaɪtˌweɪt /

adjective

1. of a relatively light weight
2. not serious; trivial

noun

1. a person or animal of a relatively light weight
2. 1. a professional boxer weighing 130–135 pounds (59–61 kg)
   2. an amateur boxer weighing 57–60 kg (126–132 pounds)
   3. ( as modifier )

      the lightweight contender

3. a wrestler in a similar weight category (usually 115–126 pounds (52–57 kg))
4. informal.
   a person of little importance or influence

Other Words From

• ultra·lightweight adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lightweight¹

First recorded in 1765–75; light ² + weight

Example Sentences

This squad, led by an impressive captain in Dewi Lake, is full of young men proud to play for their country - but they are currently lightweight and novices on the international stage.

From BBC

Catamarans consist of two parallel hulls connected by a single deck, and range from lightweight boats used in Olympic sailing, to huge passenger ferries.

From BBC

It has a 400-Lumen max output, but is still slim and lightweight, not to mention waterproof.

From Los Angeles Times

They’re lightweight, attach to your forefinger and fit comfortably in your palm, so you can carry other items and nearly forget they’re there until you need them.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s a sandy loam mixed with lightweight volcanic aggregate to provide the volume and moisture needed to support plant life while reducing the weight on the structure and allowing for easy drainage.

From Los Angeles Times