dumbbell
/ˈdʌm.bɛl/noun
A piece of exercise equipment made of a short handle with equal weights fixed at both ends.
Example sentences
- “He lifts a pair of dumbbells every morning before breakfast.”
- “She keeps a set of light dumbbells under her desk at home.”
Also a dated insult for a stupid person. The weight sense dominates now; gym vocabulary pairs it with 'barbell', which has a long bar.
Often confused with dumbbell
- dumbbell vs barbell
- barbell (noun): A long metal bar with heavy weights fixed at both ends, gripped in the middle when lifting.
Related words
treadmillAn exercise machine with a moving belt that lets you walk or run without going anywhere.weightsHeavy objects, such as dumbbells or barbells, lifted during exercise to strengthen the muscles.zumbaAn exercise program that mixes dance moves with Latin and world music.gymA place equipped with weights, exercise machines, and space for working out.danceA series of body movements performed in rhythm, usually to music, for enjoyment or on social occasions.lockerA lockable storage cabinet, usually in a public place like a school, gym, or station, where people keep their personal belongings. 