barbell

noun

bar·​bell ˈbär-ˌbel How to pronounce barbell (audio)
plural barbells
1
: a bar with adjustable weighted disks attached to each end that is used for exercise and in weight lifting
2
: something that resembles a barbell
especially : an ornament that consists of a small, thin metal rod with a ball or bead at each end and that is worn on the body as a piercing
Five years later, he has had eight ear piercings, a barbell on his lower lip and another silver barbell through his tongue. Anne Llamada Estonillo

Examples of barbell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Weightlifting, on the other hand, uses external resistance such as dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells, or weight machines. Jakob Roze, Health, 1 July 2026 Strength, after all, is not measured by the number on a barbell. Paula Chesley, STAT, 3 June 2026 He's moved away from heavy barbell squats, which were rough on his lower back, in favor of single-leg work and weight machines. Angela Haupt, Time, 15 May 2026 Olympic barbells have the same weight, diameter, and length, but other aspects can differ from brand to brand, such as the materials used. Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 13 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for barbell

Word History

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of barbell was in 1873

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Cite this Entry

“Barbell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/barbell. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

barbell

noun
bar·​bell ˈbär-ˌbel How to pronounce barbell (audio)
: a bar with adjustable weighted disks attached to each end that is used for exercise and in weight lifting

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