What does weighted mean?
Weighted is chiefly an adjective describing something that has physical weight or has been given greater importance, influence, or numerical value. Its physical use is straightforward: a weighted object is heavier than it would otherwise be, while a weighted scale incorporates masses that affect its balance. More commonly, the word appears in figurative and technical contexts. A weighted decision gives more influence to some considerations than others, and a weighted average assigns greater significance to some values than to others. This sense can imply deliberate bias, as in a system weighted toward one group, but it can also be neutral when the weighting follows an explicit mathematical or procedural rule. Weighted can also function as a past tense and past participle of weigh. Overall, the word captures the idea that equality of treatment does not necessarily mean equality of effect: an underlying value or factor can make one option count for more.
Having or assigned weight; given greater importance, influence, or numerical value than other elements.
"The competition used a weighted scoring system that placed more emphasis on accuracy than speed."
The figurative sense can suggest favour or bias, but it is neutral in technical applications such as weighted scoring and weighted averages.
The past tense and past participle of weigh, especially in the sense of assigning or supplying weight to something.
"The crew weighted the buoy with enough ballast to keep it stable."
When used as a verb, weighted is transitive and normally requires an object.
Weighted comes from weighing—literally—but today it also describes ideas and outcomes given more influence than others.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does weighted come from?
Weighted was formed in English by adding the suffix -ed to weigh. The verb weigh is an old Germanic word, with relatives including German wiegen and Dutch wegen, both meaning “to weigh.” Weight, weighty, and outweigh were subsequently formed within English from the same root. The adjective senses of weighted developed from its participial use, following the English pattern in which an -ed form describes a resulting condition or arrangement.
Related word forms
How weighted is actually used
The figurative sense often suggests deliberate favour or bias, although technical uses such as weighted scoring or weighted averages may be entirely neutral. As a verb form, weighted is transitive and normally takes an object.