Pronunciation: [dˈɛd wˈe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The phrase "dead weight" refers to something or someone that is heavy and unproductive. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word "dead" is spelled /dɛd/, with the "e" pronounced like the "e" in "bed," and the "a" pronounced like the "a" in "cat." The word "weight" is spelled /weɪt/, with the "ei" pronounced like the "ay" in "hay," and the "t" pronounced with a strong stop. Together, the phrase is pronounced as /dɛd weɪt/.
Dead weight refers to a burden or impediment that hinders progress, growth, or efficiency. It is a term commonly used to describe something or someone that does not contribute positively or actively to a particular situation but instead slows or drags it down. The expression originates from the concept of weight that has become lifeless or inert, without any useful purpose or functionality.
To illustrate this concept, dead weight can be applied to various scenarios. In business, it might refer to an unproductive employee who fails to fulfill their responsibilities or a nonperforming asset that diminishes profitability. In economics, dead weight can signify the loss of welfare or efficiency caused by interventions such as taxes or regulations, which create market distortions.
Dead weight can also be used more broadly in everyday situations, such as describing a person who burdens a group or relationship with their negative attitude or behavior. Alternatively, dead weight can refer to excessive baggage or possessions that impede mobility or functionality.
Overall, the term dead weight conveys the idea of something lifeless, burdensome, or hindering progress. It highlights the negative impact or stagnation that occurs when an entity contributes little or nothing of value, serving as an obstacle or weight to overcome.
A heavy weight or burden.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "dead weight" originates from the combination of two separate words: "dead" and "weight".
The term "dead" dates back to Old English, where it was initially spelled as "dēad". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "daudaz", which means "dead" or "lifeless". The word has remained relatively unchanged over time and is still used today to describe something lifeless or devoid of life.
The word "weight" also has its roots in Old English, spelled as "gewiht"/"wiht". It is believed to be derived from the Proto-Germanic word "wihti-", meaning "something heavy" or "a thing". Over time, the spelling changed to "weight", and the term developed its current meaning of the measure of heaviness or the force of gravity acting on an object.
