dumbbell

noun

dumb·​bell ˈdəm-ˌbel How to pronounce dumbbell (audio)
1
: a short bar with weights at each end that is used usually in pairs for exercise
2
: a stupid person : dummy

Examples of dumbbell in a Sentence

I feel like a dumbbell for making such a stupid mistake. no, you're not a dumbbell—this is one of the hardest courses the school offers
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.
Plus, a personal trainer and other fitness experts suggest the best dumbbells to improve your at-home workout routine. Elizabeth Robinson, NBC News, 17 Jan. 2025 By Kate Sloan Stand with your feet hip-width apart, knees slightly bent, and your arms relaxed by the front of your quads, with a dumbbell in each hand. Amy Marturana Winderl, SELF, 14 Jan. 2025 Dick's Sporting Goods also sells a set of dumbbells ranging from one to 12 pounds. Christopher Murray, Fox News, 11 Jan. 2025 If adjustable dumbbells aren’t in your budget, consider a kettlebell, which is a super-versatile tool for functional strength training. Lauren Mazzo, Glamour, 10 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for dumbbell 

Word History

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dumbbell was in 1775

Dictionary Entries Near dumbbell

Cite this Entry

“Dumbbell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dumbbell. Accessed 5 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

dumbbell

noun
dumb·​bell ˈdəm-ˌbel How to pronounce dumbbell (audio)
1
: a bar with weights at the ends that is usually used for exercise or building strength
2
: a stupid person : dummy entry 1

More from Merriam-Webster on dumbbell

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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