Weights Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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weights

[weɪts ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

lifting

Objects used to provide resistance in strength training and bodybuilding.

Synonyms

barbells, dumbbells, plates.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
weights

General term used for any kind of weightlifting equipment. Can refer to various types of weights including barbells, dumbbells, and plates.

  • I lifted weights at the gym today
  • He uses weights to build muscle
dumbbells

Short bars that can be held with one hand. Suitable for single-handed exercises and workouts focusing on smaller muscle groups.

  • He did bicep curls with dumbbells
  • Dumbbells are great for shoulder presses
barbells

Long bars with weights attached at both ends. Ideal for exercises that require both hands, like bench presses or squats.

  • I loaded the barbell with 100 pounds
  • She prefers barbells for her deadlift exercises
plates

Flat, round weights that are typically added to barbells or used individually for certain exercises like plate carries.

  • He added 10 kg plates to the barbell
  • Plates can be used for more than just lifting

Examples of usage

  • He lifted heavy weights at the gym.
  • She prefers using free weights for her workout.
  • Weights are essential for building muscle mass.
Context #2 | Noun

measurement

Units used to express the heaviness of an object.

Synonyms

burden, load, mass.

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Word Description / Examples
weights

Generally used in the context of physical objects being lifted or measured, especially in workouts, sports, or science.

  • He lifted weights at the gym to build muscle.
  • The scales were calibrated using standard weights.
mass

Typically scientific or technical, referring to the measure of the amount of matter in an object. It can also describe a large quantity of something.

  • Scientists measured the mass of the newly discovered element.
  • There was a mass of people waiting outside the stadium.
load

Can be used for both physical and figurative contexts. It often refers to something being carried or supported, such as cargo or responsibilities.

  • The truck carried a heavy load of goods to the market.
  • She took on the extra load of work without complaining.
burden

Often describes something figurative or abstract that causes stress, responsibility, or emotional strain. This term usually has a negative connotation.

  • The responsibility of caring for his sick mother became a heavy burden.
  • Financial troubles were a constant burden on the family.

Examples of usage

  • The weight of the package was 5 kilograms.
  • The bookshelf collapsed under the weight of the books.
  • She checked her weight on the scale.
Context #3 | Verb

burdening

To burden or oppress someone or something with a heavy load.

Synonyms

burden, oppress, overwhelm.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
weights

Use this when referring to physical objects used for exercise or the measurement of mass. It's not usually used metaphorically.

  • She lifted heavy weights at the gym.
  • The weights on the scale showed the exact measurement.
burden

This is appropriate when referring to a heavy load, whether physical or emotional. It often implies something difficult or troublesome that one must carry or deal with.

  • The financial burden was too much for him to bear.
  • Caring for her sick mother was a heavy burden on her shoulders.
oppress

Best used when describing a situation where someone is being kept down or held back by authority, force, or unfair treatment. It has a negative connotation.

  • The regime has long oppressed its citizens, denying them basic freedoms.
  • She felt oppressed by the strict rules imposed at her school.
overwhelm

Suitable for describing a feeling of being buried beneath a huge mass of something, whether it's duties, emotions, or other pressures. Often used to convey a sense of being unable to cope.

  • He was overwhelmed by the sheer amount of work he had to finish.
  • The news of the disaster overwhelmed her with sadness.

Examples of usage

  • The guilt of his actions weighted heavily on his conscience.
  • She felt weighted down by the responsibilities at work.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Fitness & Health

  • Resistance training with weights helps build muscle, improve bone density, and boost metabolism.
  • Studies show that lifting weights can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease.
  • Many fitness programs now incorporate strength training multiple times a week for overall health benefits.

History

  • Weights have been used since ancient times in sports, from the Greek Olympic Games to modern competitions.
  • Early Egyptians used stone weights for lifting, laying the groundwork for the evolution of exercise equipment.
  • In the 1900s, weightlifting became an official sport, with various categories for different body weights.

Technology

  • Modern weightlifting equipment now includes advanced materials like carbon fiber for durability and safety.
  • Digital scales and smart weights now connect to apps, tracking progress and personal records effectively.
  • Two popular events in the Olympics, weightlifting and powerlifting, showcase the evolution of strength sports.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest lifting weights can enhance mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
  • The discipline of regular weight training fosters determination and resilience, traits beneficial in daily life.
  • Group weightlifting sessions can create social bonds, enhancing motivation through community support.

Origin of 'weights'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'weight' comes from the Old English 'waeg', meaning 'to be heavy'.
  • In Latin, the root word is 'pensare', meaning 'to weigh', which connects to how we measure heaviness.
  • Similar words in other languages, like 'peso' in Spanish and 'poids' in French, also refer to heaviness.

The word 'weights' originated from the Old English word 'gewiht', which referred to the heaviness of an object. Over time, the term evolved to encompass both the objects used for lifting and the measurement of heaviness. The concept of weights has been integral to human history, from ancient civilizations using stones as weights to modern gym equipment. Today, weights play a crucial role in fitness, science, and various other fields.


See also: overweight, weight, weighted, weightier, weightlessness, weighty.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,148, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.