paper-weight

A paper-weight holds down the stack of documents on the desk.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small, heavy object: "paper-weight" refers to a small, often decorative object placed on loose papers to prevent them from being moved or blown away by the wind.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She placed a glass paper-weight on the stack of documents. (A heavy object used to keep papers in place.)
  • The antique paper-weight was shaped like a crystal ball. (A decorative item designed to hold down papers.)

Advanced Usage

• "to use as a paper-weight": to repurpose an object for holding down papers.
  • He used a large seashell as a paper-weight on his desk. (The seashell served the function of keeping papers from shifting.)

Variants and Related Words

• Paperweight (n): alternative spelling, meaning the same object.
  • The paperweight on her desk was made of polished marble. (A heavy decorative object for holding papers.)

Synonyms

• Letterweight: a heavy object used to hold down letters or documents.
• Bookend: a pair of supports used to hold books upright, but sometimes used similarly for papers.

Idioms (None directly related to "paper-weight" as a single word, but common figurative uses)

• "A paperweight for the mind": a metaphorical phrase meaning something that stifles thought or creativity (rare).
  • The repetitive task became a paperweight for the mind. (The task prevented creative thinking.)

Phrasal Verbs (None directly associated with "paper-weight" as a noun)