dumbbell

noun

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

Synonyms of dumbbell

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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.
The arrest came two days after one of Miller’s children called 911 to report that a dumbbell had fallen on her 9-year-old brother’s head, according to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. — Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 27 Oct. 2026 The 9-year-old boy who was injured by the dumbbell was released from the hospital, and the children's father was contacted and agreed to take them to his home. — CBS News, 27 Oct. 2026 Hold one or both dumbbells at chest level with both hands, and lean back slightly while engaging your core. — Sarah Stiefvater, Flow Space, 23 Oct. 2026 Deputies say Gonzalez grabbed a dumbbell, raised it and swung at Murant. — Devoun Cetoute, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026 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

Rhymes for dumbbell

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Browse Nearby Words

dumb barter
dumbbell
dumbbell tenement
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Cite this Entry

“Dumbbell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dumbbell. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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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
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