barbell

American  

[bahr-bel] / ˈbɑrˌbɛl /

noun

1. an apparatus used in weight-lifting, consisting of a bar with replaceable, disk-shaped weights fastened to the ends.

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barbell British  

/ ˈbɑːˌbɛl /

noun

1. a metal rod to which heavy discs are attached at each end for weightlifting exercises

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Etymology

Origin of barbell

First recorded in 1885–90; bar ¹ + bell ¹

Explanation

The long pole with weights on each end that a weightlifter or bodybuilder lifts at a gym is called a barbell. If you're new to lifting weights, your barbell may only hold a few pounds. Olympic weight lifters or power lifters may heft barbells with very long bars and extremely heavy weights, while general fitness seekers lift shorter, lighter barbells. Before the word barbell first emerged in the 19th century, there was the word dumbbell, "weighted bar used for exercise," from which the bell ending was borrowed for barbell.

Example Sentences

Barbell bros are legion, but are vastly outnumbered by those of us who are too intimidated to step into a weight room with power lifters comparing notes on creatine.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2023

After being hurt, Murphy spent part of his rehabilitation at the invitation-only Westside Barbell gym in Columbus, Ohio, where Murphy pulled sleds and squatted 475 pounds.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 16, 2020

Grid Vongpiansuksa tried Barbell Brigade in 2014 and came back for the support.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 23, 2017

Last month, the coalition held an event called Pull for Pride at the Murder of Crows Barbell Club in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, with sister events in Minneapolis, Washington and San Francisco.

From New York Times • Jul. 6, 2017

And the voice near his ear said: "A hundred yards to go, Barbell."

From Anything You Can Do! by Garrett, Randall