weightless - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
weightless Word Meanings
- not having weight or gravity
- feeling as if you have no weight
- light and airy
weightless Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
weightless Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈweɪt.ləs/
US
/ˈweɪt.ləs/
weightless Word Etymology
Weightless = weight + -less; from Old English 'wiht' (weight) combined with the suffix '-less' indicating absence. Imagine floating in space, feeling free and unburdened by gravity's pull.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Weightless describes something that has no weight or gravity, or a feeling of being so light that you seem to float. It can refer to physical absence of heaviness, as in astronauts feeling weightless when gravity is weak, or a metaphorical sense of mental or emotional relief, as if obligations have fallen away. The phrase often evokes the sensation of flying or drifting, with no weight pulling you down. Etymology-wise, weightless is built from weight + less, derived from Old English wiht (weight) plus the suffix -less indicating absence, reinforcing the image of floating, unburdened by gravity's pull.
Usage Reminders
- Use weightless for physical absence of weight; describe a feeling of lightness; pair with look/feel/appear; not used for people when they are merely 'not heavy' from eating; avoid confusing with weighty when referring to importance; generally with verbs like feel, seem, appear
Common Misconceptions
- Weightless means the opposite of heavy, not just lighter
- It describes feelings only, never physical states
- A weightless object is literally without mass
- All things light are weightless (color, sound, mood)
- Weightless is the same as weighty in all contexts
Thinking Differences
English speakers often see weightless as both a literal physics term and a vivid metaphor for lightness of mood; learners may mix it with lightweight or weighty. Emphasize that weightless describes absence of weight, not simply being light in color or size.
Learning Tips
- Pair weightless with verbs feel, seem, look
- Differentiate from lightweight (physical thinness) vs weightless
- Practice physical vs metaphorical senses in sentences
- Use in context with space/science or emotional relief
- Watch collocations: feel weightless, look weightless, seem weightless
- Remember etymology weight + less for absence
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'weightless' mean?
A.Being extremely heavy
B.Feeling sad and alone
C.Having no weight
D.Being very thin
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'weightless' correctly?
A.The astronaut enjoyed a weightless experience in space.
B.The cake was weightless when it came out of the oven.
C.The swimmer felt weightless while diving into the pool.
D.The feather was weightless compared to the rock.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'weightless'?
A.Light
B.Heavy
C.Dense
D.Bulky
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'weightless'?
A.Floating
B.Heavy
C.Soaring
D.Drifting
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for 'weightless'?
A.In everyday life, people often have weightless feelings.
B.Objects in free fall can experience a weightless state.
C.When you lift weights, it feels weightless.
D.During a workout, people sometimes feel weightless.
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