Dead weight Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun an oppressive encumbrance
  2. noun a heavy motionless weight

WordNet


Definitions
  1. . (a) A heavy or oppressive burden. Dryden. (b) (Shipping) A ship's lading, when it consists of heavy goods; or, the heaviest part of a ship's cargo. (c) (Railroad) The weight of rolling stock, the live weight being the load. Knight.

Webster 1913