underweight
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˌʌndərˈweɪt/
KK: /ʌndərˈweɪt/
adjective
Definition
Weighing less than what is considered normal or healthy for a person.
Example
The doctor advised her to gain some weight because she was underweight.
Conversation
I've been feeling really tired lately, and I think I might be underweight.
That could be it! Have you been eating enough?
Not really, I've been super busy with work.
You should definitely make time to eat better; your health is important!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
light
slim
thin
Antonyms
overweight
heavy
obese
noun
Definition
A condition where a person weighs less than what is considered healthy or normal for their height and age.
Example
The doctor advised her to gain weight because she was classified as underweight.
Conversation
I heard Jamie is feeling a bit weak lately.
Yeah, I think they might be underweight right now.
That's concerning! Have they seen a doctor about it?
Root Explanation
Underweight → It is formed from "under-" (meaning below or beneath) and "weight" (from Old English "wiht", meaning weight or heaviness). The word "underweight" describes a state of being below a normal or healthy weight.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'below' ('under-') a normal 'weight' — that's what underweight means.
Visually Confused Words
unweight
hundredweight
counterweight
unweighty