Definition

1. Noun:
   • A weight class in boxing: A featherweight is a professional boxer who competes in a specific weight division, traditionally between 123 and 126 pounds.
   • A specific weight limit: The term also denotes the weight class itself, characterized by its upper limit (e.g., 126 pounds for amateurs, 126-139 pounds for specific professional definitions).
   • A very light person or thing: By extension, it can refer to anything or anyone of little weight, importance, or influence.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The champion defended his title against a top-ranked featherweight.
  • She fought as a featherweight in the Olympic games.
  • In terms of political power, he's a mere featherweight.

Advanced Usage

• "featherweight division": The category or class in boxing for featherweights.

  • He moved up from the featherweight division to compete at lightweight.

• Used figuratively: To describe something of minimal substance or impact.

  • The report was a featherweight analysis of a very complex issue.

Variants and Related Words

• Lightweight (n): A heavier weight class in boxing (typically 135 pounds). Often used in contrast to "featherweight."
• Welterweight (n): A heavier weight class in boxing (typically 147 pounds).

Synonyms

• Lightweight (when used figuratively for insignificance)
• Flyweight (a lower weight class; can be used similarly for triviality)

Related Phrases

• A featherweight argument: An argument that is weak or lacks substantial evidence.
  • His objection was a featherweight argument easily dismissed by the committee.

Noun

1. a professional boxer who weighs between 123 and 126 pounds
2. weighs 126-139 pounds
3. an amateur boxer who weighs no more than 126 pounds