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 Word Forms

• ultralightweight adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lightweight¹

First recorded in 1765–75; light ² + weight

Example Sentences

Hughes took that belief into the lightweight title bout with the undefeated Nurmagomedov in January, where he pushed the Russian further than he had been in any of his previous 19 bouts.

From BBC

His career has been built in lighter weight classes, dominating as a welterweight and lightweight, with a style based on mobility, variety of angles and intelligence in the ring.

From Los Angeles Times

Crawford first became world champion at lightweight before unifying the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions.

From BBC

He wore a lightweight black raincoat and loafers, a dark business suit, a crisp white shirt, a narrow black tie and a pearl stick-pin.

From Los Angeles Times

She designed all kinds of pieces, from striped vests and floor-length dresses to lightweight pants and winter coats.

From Los Angeles Times