Weigh

Verb

Definition: To determine the weight or heaviness of something by using a scale or other measuring device.

Definition: To have a certain weight or heaviness.

Synonyms: Measure, Assess, Evaluate

Antonyms: Disregard, Ignore

Examples:

Please weigh this package before shipping it.
The elephant weighs over 6,000 pounds.

Mnemonics:

Think of weighing scales when you hear the word "weigh".
In a weightlifting competition, participants are weighed before their performance.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English 'weyen', from Old English 'wegan', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'wegen' and German 'wiegen'.

Historical Usage:

The word "weigh" has been used since Old English and has retained its meaning of measuring weight throughout its history.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Weigh in"

Explanation:

To be officially weighed, usually before a competition or event. Also used metaphorically to mean making one's opinion or presence known or influential.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "weigh" with "way" or "whey".

Explanation:

While "way" refers to a manner or method, and "whey" refers to a liquid byproduct of cheese-making, "weigh" specifically relates to measuring the weight of something.