What does weightlifting mean?
Weightlifting is the activity of lifting weights, either as a competitive sport or as a form of exercise and strength training. In competitive contexts, the term usually refers to the Olympic discipline in which athletes lift weights in the snatch and clean-and-jerk. In general use, it can also mean any structured resistance-training activity involving weighted bars, dumbbells, or related equipment. The word has a practical, athletic meaning and is strongly associated with discipline, strength, and physical conditioning. It is used in reporting on sport, describing training routines, and discussing exercise programs. “Weightlifting” is normally an uncountable noun, while “weightlifter” identifies a person who practices the sport or activity. Although closely related to weight training, competitive weightlifting is more specifically organized around standardized lifts and judged performances.
nounThe activity or sport of lifting weights, especially as a competitive or structured exercise. In general use, it refers both to the Olympic sport and to resistance training involving heavy or weighted equipment.
- The sport of lifting weights in prescribed movements, commonly performed in snatch and clean-and-jerk competitions.
- The broader activity of lifting weights for exercise, strength, or physical conditioning.
"She has practiced weightlifting for years and now competes in regional competitions."
"The weightlifting competition attracted athletes from across the country."
"Regular weightlifting helped him build strength and improve his posture."
Infrequent; “weightlifting” is normally treated as a mass noun. The plural may refer to separate acts or instances of weightlifting.
"The documentary examines the weightliftings of athletes from different generations."
Weightlifting was part of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, making it one of the sport’s enduring Olympic traditions.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of weightlifting
The word is a compound of “weight” and “lifting.” “Weight” comes from Old English weg, while “lifting” is based on Middle English liften, continuing Old English lyftan. The compound refers literally to the lifting of weights, and its sporting sense developed alongside organized weightlifting competitions.
Related word forms
How weightlifting is actually used
A neutral, generally formal term used in sporting, educational, and fitness contexts. It is normally treated as an uncountable noun, though the plural is occasionally used for separate acts or instances of the activity.