# heft

/ˈhɛft/ (US) · /hˈɛft/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/heft
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

the weight or heavy feel of something. It can also mean the power or importance of a person or thing.

For teachers: the weight or heavy quality of an object; by extension, the power, importance, or influence of a person or entity. Often used in agricultural or informal contexts to describe the physical or metaphorical weight of a situation.

## Examples

- The heft of the old wooden axe was surprising.
- The heft of the new legislation will be felt by small businesses across the country next month.
- While the initial proposal seemed minor, the heft of the subsequent amendments suggested a fundamental shift in the company's long-term strategy.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.