outweigh

verb

out·​weigh ˌau̇t-ˈwā How to pronounce outweigh (audio)
outweighed; outweighing; outweighs

transitive verb

: to exceed in weight, value, or importance
the advantages outweigh the disadvantages

Examples of outweigh in a Sentence

She outweighs her sister by 10 pounds. This issue outweighs all others in importance.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Over time, your investment holdings — part of your net worth — should greatly outweigh your salary and other annual income. Russ Wiles, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025 In high-performing teams, collaboration and a shared purpose consistently outweigh individual differences, according to Muzellec. Sally Percy, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025 Patients and their doctors must work together to decide when the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, and vice versa. Jamie Ducharme, Health, 18 Apr. 2025 Still, the value of an independent potash supply outweighed the risks. Made By History, Time, 15 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for outweigh

Word History

First Known Use

1534, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of outweigh was in 1534

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Outweigh.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outweigh. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

outweigh

verb
out·​weigh -ˈwā How to pronounce outweigh (audio)
: to be greater than in weight, value, or importance
the benefits outweigh the disadvantages
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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