How Do You Spell MAKEWEIGHTS?

Pronunciation: [mˈe͡ɪkwe͡ɪts] (IPA)

The word "makeweights" is spelled with a combination of letters that can be a bit tricky to decipher. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be pronounced /ˈmeɪkweɪt/. The "make" part is straightforward, but the "weights" part can be confusing due to the silent "i" and "gh" combination. This word is typically used to refer to something added to balance out a situation or to make up a required quantity, and understanding its spelling can help in both reading and writing.

MAKEWEIGHTS Meaning and Definition

1. Makeweights is a noun that refers to objects or individuals used to balance or equalize a situation or equation, typically in weight or value. This term can also be used metaphorically to describe something or someone that provides additional support or influence in a particular context.

   In the literal sense, makeweights commonly encompasses items used to adjust the weight of a scale or balance. These objects are typically of known weight, added to one side of the scale to make it equal to the other side. This concept can also be applied to complex equations or mathematical calculations, where additional values or variables are incorporated to make the equation or calculation balance.

   In a more figurative sense, makeweights are factors or elements introduced into a situation to ensure fairness, equilibrium, or stability. For instance, in negotiations, one party may offer makeweights to offset an imbalance of power or to persuade the other party to reach a compromise. Similarly, in politics, certain policies or concessions might be considered makeweights to gain support from different interest groups or to maintain a delicate balance within a ruling coalition.

   In summary, makeweights are objects, individuals, or elements used to balance or equalize various situations, be it literal scales, mathematical equations, negotiations, or political contexts, often with the aim of achieving fairness, stability, or influence.

Common Misspellings for MAKEWEIGHTS

• makeweigts
• makeweighs
• makewieghts
• makeweyghts
• maikweights
• makeweiths

Etymology of MAKEWEIGHTS

The word "makeweights" comes from the combination of two separate words: "make" and "weights". The term originated in the late 17th century and was initially used in a literal sense in relation to balancing scales. It referred to additional weights that were added to one side of a scale in order to achieve balance. Over time, the term evolved and began to be used metaphorically to describe something or someone added to a group or situation to maintain balance, especially when there was an uneven distribution.

Similar spelling words for MAKEWEIGHTS

• make good,
• makeweight.