bench press

¹ American  

noun

1. a weightlifting exercise in which one lies supine on a bench and with both hands pushes a barbell or fixed weight upward from chest level to arm's length and then lowers it back to chest level: usually repeated in sets.

2. one complete repetition of this exercise.

3. this exercise as an event in weightlifting competition.

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bench-press ² American  

[bench-pres] / ˈbɛntʃˌprɛs /

verb (used with or without object)

1. to perform a bench press with (a weight).

   He is small but can bench-press more than 400 pounds.

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bench press British  

noun

1. a weight-training exercise in which a person lies on a bench and pushes a barbell upwards with both hands from chest level until the arms are straight, then lowers it again

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verb

1. (intr) to carry out one or more bench presses

Etymology

Origin of bench press

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Henley did not participate in the 40 or cone drills during pro day, but recorded impressive marks in the vertical jump and broad jump, and logged 19 reps on the bench press.

From Seattle Times

In excellent health and able to bench press 120 pounds, Ms. Callahan expects to live long enough to get more in lifetime benefits by waiting than by claiming less for a longer time.

From New York Times

But the Fighting Irish responded with a stifling four-goal run, and they delivered their own lineup of sideline reactions: the limbo, a phantom bench press and archery practice.

From Washington Post

In between bench press reps, he felt a tap on his shoulder and looked up to see a hooded Bryant in sunglasses.

From Los Angeles Times

He wiped his face, this man who was more than twice my age and could bench press 300 pounds.

From Washington Post