See Also: makeweight(dictionary)

makeweight (iou)



makeweight noun. Also make-weight. L17.
[from MAKE verb + WEIGHT noun.]
A comparatively small quantity added to make up a certain weight. Formerly spec., a small candle. L17.
fig. A person or thing of insignificant value thrown in to make up a deficiency or fill a gap. L18.
A counterbalancing weight, a counterpoise. L18.