weightlifter
Americannoun
Explanation
A weightlifter is an athlete who picks up and holds a very heavy barbell. Weightlifters compete to see which of them can heave the heaviest load. Weightlifters compete in many competitions, including the Olympics. These powerful athletes are able to lift enormous amounts of weight, often grunting loudly while they do so. Olympic weightlifters have three chances to lift a barbell weighing anywhere from 100 to 250 pounds. If you do bicep curls at home with 20-pound weights, you can still call yourself a weightlifter!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
I didn’t feel any affinity with the humanoid that smashed Bolt’s 100-meter record, but found the robot weightlifter that crumpled under a 15kg barbell and staggered into a table very relatable.
From Slate ● Sep. 27, 2026
Like when a weightlifter staggered under a puny-looking barbell, then dropped it, tripped over it and landed face first.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 3, 2026
Only ONE trans woman weightlifter competed in Tokyo 2021 and she did not win a medal.
From BBC ● Mar. 31, 2026
And, no, he wasn’t a weightlifter, chainsaw juggler or a magician like the other familiar fixtures on the Venice boardwalk.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 8, 2025
I squat and stand, sure I look like a weightlifter at the Olympics as my legs wobble.
From "Saints and Misfits" by S.K. Ali
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