Definition of dead weight Dead weight

We found 5 definitions of dead weight from 3 different sources.

What does dead weight mean?

Noun
dead weight - a heavy motionless weight
dead weight - an oppressive encumbrance

= synonym
= antonym
= related word

dead weight (Noun)
Unremitting heavy weight that does not move.
dead weight (Noun)
That which is useless or excess; that which slows something down.

dead weight
A vessel's lading when it consists of heavy goods, but particularly such as pay freight according to their weight and not their stowage.