Ultralight Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

✈️
Add to dictionary

ultralight

[ˈʌltraˌlaɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

weight reduction

The term 'ultralight' refers to something that is extremely lightweight, often in the context of materials or equipment designed for ease of transport and reduced physical strain. In various fields such as aviation, camping, and outdoor sports, ultralight gear is favored for its ability to enhance mobility and comfort. The ultralight philosophy emphasizes minimizing unnecessary weight while maintaining functionality and performance. This approach is particularly popular among backpackers and aviators, who prioritize efficiency and carrying capacity.

Synonyms

lightweight, minimalist, streamlined.

Examples of usage

  • He bought an ultralight tent for his trip.
  • The ultralight aircraft can glide effortlessly.
  • They prefer ultralight materials for their backpacking gear.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Ultralight materials are often used in aerospace engineering to create aircraft that consume less fuel.
  • The use of carbon fiber and titanium has revolutionized the ultralight category, providing strength without bulk.
  • In the tech world, ultralight features in laptops or gadgets emphasize portability for on-the-go users.

Lifestyle and Recreation

  • Ultralight camping gear allows outdoor enthusiasts to reduce pack weight, enhancing mobility on hikes.
  • The ultralight hiking trend emphasizes minimalism, encouraging adventurers to use only essentials.
  • Competitions like ultralight backpacking races have emerged, focusing on speed and efficiency over traditional setups.

Science

  • In physics, ultralight refers to particles or materials that have an exceptionally low mass, which can lead to unique properties.
  • Research in ultralight materials has implications for everything from sports gear to construction, showcasing versatility.
  • Ultralight phenomena can also pose challenges, such as juggling stability in designs meant for extreme applications.

Art and Design

  • In furniture design, ultralight materials create innovative seating solutions that combine comfort with ease of movement.
  • Artists have experimented with ultralight sculptures that challenge traditional concepts of weight and balance.
  • Fashion designers are increasingly using ultralight fabrics to create garments that are both fashionable and comfortable.

Origin of 'ultralight'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Ultralight' combines 'ultra,' meaning beyond or extreme, and 'light,' referring to weight.
  • The term started to gain popularity in the mid-20th century, especially in the context of aviation.
  • It is often used in contexts like ultralight aircraft and backpacks designed for long hikes.

The word 'ultralight' combines the prefix 'ultra-', which derives from Latin meaning 'beyond' or 'exceeding', with the term 'light'. Historically, 'light' has been used to describe objects that weigh little, but the addition of 'ultra-' suggests an even greater degree of weight reduction. The concept gained popularity in the late 20th century, particularly in outdoor and recreational activities, where the need for more portable and efficient gear became evident. As enthusiasts sought to optimize their equipment for travel and performance, the emergence of 'ultralight' gear revolutionized these industries. It transformed the way people approach activities like hiking, cycling, and aviation, leading to innovations in materials and design aimed at achieving the perfect balance of weight and functionality.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,119, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.