How Do You Spell Dumbbell — a Quick Spelling Guide

How do you spell dumbbell? Is it with a double b or single b? Words like that are always up for creating confusion as you write. All words in the English language don’t fall under the doubling spelling rule. How would you know which letter in the word to double?

This article will explain where the term dumbbell came from and how to spell it correctly without making mistakes.

Dumbbell vs. Dumbell — Which is Correct?

Dumbbell, also written as dumb-bell, is the correct spelling of the word which is existent in the dictionary. However, ‘dumbell’ sounds and looks identical to “dumbbell” is an incorrect spelling.

Dumbbells are short bars with weights on each end typically used in pairs for a workout. These gears tone and strengthen the body muscles while increasing their size. This is an exercise tool used by bodybuilders or athletes in their training sessions.

Why is it called a ‘dumb bell’?

Why are dumbbells called ‘dumb bells?’ This is a typical question. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, it draws its name from a type of exercise gear that was popular in the 1700s. It was said to be similar to the apparatus used to ring a church bell but without the bell. As a result, it didn’t actually create any noise, earning the label “dumb.”

How do you spell dumbbell?

Dumbbell is an 8-lettered word with 2 vowels and 6 consonants. With double Bs and double Ls, this word is spelled as D-U-M-B-B-E-L-L. The words contain 2 syllables: dumb-bell with the primary stress on the first syllable. In the US and UK English, the term is pronounced as [duhm·bel].

Breaking ‘dumbbell’ in its syllables makes it easier to spell the word correctly. Essentially, it is a combination of two words:

Dumb + bell = Dumbbell

It is evident why you can’t leave one of the Bs in the spelling. It should always contain 2 Bs and 2 Ls.

Dictionary Definition of Dumbbell with Examples

Dumbbell is a noun in the parts of speech. It has two meanings: one is a formal one, and the other is a slang word in American English. Below are the definitions with example sentences.

1. An exercise instrument used in pairs and consists of a short bar with round weights on each end to tone the body or build muscles.

• I used dumbbells to tone my biceps.
• He works out with dumbbells at home.

2. (informal in American English) refers to a stupid or foolish person.

• That dumbbell kept calling me all day.
• It’s unbelievable that you’re following the advice of that dumbbell.

To Wrap Up

After going through the article, how do you spell dumbbell? I hope you don’t leave out one of the B’s in the spelling. Try splitting the word as dumb + bell when you stumble on this word. This article is a quick guide to help you spell the word correctly and learn its usage in writing.