Weight

Definition

Weight is a noun referring to the measure of the gravitational force exerted on an object, often expressed in units such as kilograms or pounds. It can also refer to the heaviness, burden, or importance of something. As a verb, it means to make something heavier or to assign importance.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /weɪt/
• Respelling: wayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /weɪt/
• Respelling: wayt

Etymology

The word "weight" originates from Old English "wiht," meaning "amount, weight," derived from Proto-Germanic "*wihti" and Proto-Indo-European "*wekti," meaning "a thing or object." Its modern meanings evolved from these roots to signify both physical and metaphorical weight.

Derivatives

• Weighted (adjective/verb)
• Weighting (noun)
• Weightless (adjective)
• Weighty (adjective)
• Overweight (adjective/noun)

Synonyms

• Mass
• Heaviness
• Burden

Antonyms

• Lightness
• Buoyancy
• None

Usage

As a noun, "weight" can refer to physical mass, such as "The weight of the package is 10 pounds."

It also describes metaphorical significance, such as "The decision carries great weight."

As a verb, "weight" refers to adding physical weight or assigning importance. For example, "The scales are weighted for accuracy."

Related Terms

• Mass: The amount of matter in an object.
• Gravity: The force of attraction between two masses.
• Load: The amount of weight carried or supported.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A measure of the force of gravity on an object: Refers to the heaviness or mass of an object.
  • Example: "The weight of the suitcase exceeded the airline limit."
• Importance or significance: Describes the metaphorical heaviness or influence of something.
  • Example: "His words carried a lot of weight in the discussion."
• A heavy object used for exercise or balance: Refers to items designed to add physical strain or stability.
  • Example: "She lifted weights at the gym."

Verb

• To make something heavier: Refers to adding mass or heaviness to an object.
  • Example: "The curtains were weighted at the bottom to prevent movement."
• To assign importance or bias: Describes giving greater significance to something.
  • Example: "The evaluation was weighted heavily towards performance."