Definition

1. Verb:
   • To lift weights: The act of performing exercises by raising or moving heavy objects, typically barbells or dumbbells, to build muscle strength or for athletic training.

Usage

• The verb "weight-lift" describes the specific activity of engaging in strength training with weights. It is synonymous with "lift weights." It is used to talk about the general activity or a specific instance of performing such exercises.

Examples

• Verb:
  • He goes to the gym every morning to weight-lift.
  • She learned how to weight-lift properly to avoid injury.
  • Athletes often weight-lift as part of their training regimen.

Advanced Usage

• "to weight-lift" vs. "to lift weights": While both are correct, "to lift weights" is a more common phrasal verb construction. "To weight-lift" is a less frequent but valid verb form derived from the noun.
  • Common: I lift weights three times a week.
  • Less common: I weight-lift three times a week.

Variants and Related Words

• Weightlifting (n): The sport or activity of lifting barbells or other heavy weights.
  • He won a gold medal in weightlifting.
• Weightlifter (n): A person who lifts weights, especially as a sport.
  • She is a professional weightlifter.

Synonyms

• Lift weights: The most direct synonym.
• Pump iron (idiomatic, informal): To lift weights, especially with great effort.
  • He's at the gym pumping iron.

Related Phrases

• Strength train: To exercise with the goal of increasing muscular strength, which often involves weight-lifting.
  • Her program includes cardio and strength training.

Verb

1. lift weights
   • This guy can press 300 pounds