barbell

noun

bar·​bell ˈbär-ˌbel 

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

That includes calisthenics, working with resistance bands, bodyweight exercises like squats and lunges, jumping rope, and of course lifting dumbbells, kettlebells, or barbells heavy enough to challenge you. —Holly Carter, PEOPLE, 22 Apr. 2026

The top of the barbell is fine. —Katica Roy, Fortune, 21 Apr. 2026

As trendy as the weight room might be these days, the world of barbells and dumbbells can be a pretty intimidating place. —Jennifer Heimlich, SELF, 24 Mar. 2026

Build these into your routine and do them with your bodyweight, dumbbells, kettlebells, barbells or bands. —Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 20 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for barbell

• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bombshell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel
• dispel

Kids Definition

barbell

noun

bar·​bell ˈbär-ˌbel 

: a bar with adjustable weighted disks attached to each end that is used for exercise and in weight lifting