dead lift
C1Specialized (technical: fitness/sports), informal when used metaphorically.
Definition
Meaning
A weightlifting exercise in which a person lifts a barbell or similar heavy object from the floor to hip level in one fluid motion while keeping the back straight.
An act of lifting something heavy with no assistance or momentum. Can be used metaphorically to describe a direct, unaided effort to raise or support a heavy physical or abstract burden.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a noun (perform a dead lift). Also used as a verb (to deadlift). It denotes a specific, controlled lifting technique, distinct from a general 'lift'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning. Spelling preference may vary: 'dead lift' (two words) is slightly more common in BrE, while 'deadlift' (one word) is more established in AmE, especially as a verb.
Connotations
Identical in both varieties; strongly associated with strength training, powerlifting, gym culture.
Frequency
Equally common in both BrE and AmE within fitness contexts. The metaphorical use is rare in both.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
to do/perform a dead lift (noun)to deadlift [OBJECT] (verb)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[Metaphorical] We'll need a dead lift from the sales team to meet the quarterly target.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Very rare; occasional metaphorical use for a critical, unaided effort.
Academic
Rare; only in sports science literature.
Everyday
Common in discussions about gym workouts, fitness, and personal health.
Technical
Standard term in strength training, powerlifting, and physiotherapy contexts.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- She can dead lift 150 kilograms with ease.
- I wouldn't recommend deadlifting with a rounded back.
American English
- He deadlifts twice a week as part of his strength program.
- Make sure you learn how to deadlift safely first.
adjective
British English
- She set a new personal best with her dead-lift weight.
- The dead-lift platform is over there.
American English
- His deadlift max is impressive.
- Use a deadlift bar for this competition.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The trainer showed us how to do a dead lift.
- Performing a proper dead lift requires good technique to avoid back injury.
- His goal is to deadlift over 200 kilos by the end of the year.
- The study compared muscle activation during the conventional and sumo-style dead lift.
- While the squat develops overall power, the deadlift is unparalleled for posterior chain strength.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'dead' as in 'dead weight' – you lift a completely still, heavy weight from the floor.
Conceptual Metaphor
STRENGTH IS LIFTING; DIFFICULT TASKS ARE HEAVY WEIGHTS (e.g., 'He gave the project the dead lift it needed.').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid calquing as "мёртвый подъём". The correct translation is "становая тяга".
Common Mistakes
- Writing it as one word when using it primarily as a noun in formal contexts (though 'deadlift' is acceptable). Confusing it with 'clean and jerk' or 'snatch' (Olympic lifts).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of a dead lift in strength training?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Both are accepted. 'Deadlift' (one word) is increasingly common, especially for the verb form. Dictionaries and formal style guides may still list it as two words ('dead lift').
A squat starts with the weight on your shoulders/back and you lower your hips. A dead lift starts with the weight on the floor and you lift it by straightening your hips and knees.
Yes, but rarely. It can be used metaphorically to describe a heavy, unaided effort (e.g., 'financing the venture required a financial dead lift'). This usage is informal and idiomatic.
Because the weight is lifted from a 'dead' (completely stationary) position on the floor, with no initial momentum or bounce to assist the lifter.