ENGLISH
REFERENCE

lifting

v. · n.
US //ˈɫɪftɪŋ// UK //lˈɪftɪŋ// lift·ing
  1. 1 moving upward (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    the act of picking something up or moving it to a higher level.

    the action of raising an object to a higher position or level.

    Example

    Lifting heavy boxes all day made his back feel very sore.

    Example

    The construction crew spent the morning lifting steel beams into place using a massive crane positioned at the center of the site.

  2. 2 ending a rule (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

    removing a rule, a ban, or a limit.

    the formal removal or rescinding of a legal restriction, ban, or embargo.

    Example

    The government is finally lifting the travel ban next month.

    Example

    The lifting of trade sanctions led to a rapid increase in cross-border investment and renewed diplomatic cooperation between the two nations.

Show 3 more sensesShow fewer
  1. 3 weight training (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Sport

    the sport or exercise of picking up heavy weights to get stronger.

    the activity or sport of weightlifting, typically for physical conditioning or competition.

    Example

    She goes to the gym three times a week for some heavy lifting.

    Example

    His training regimen focuses primarily on power lifting to build the explosive strength required for professional rugby.

  2. 4 cosmetic surgery (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Medicine

    a medical operation to make your face look younger by tightening the skin.

    a surgical procedure intended to reduce signs of aging by tightening facial tissues.

    Example

    She decided against a surgical lifting and chose a simpler treatment instead.

    Example

    Advancements in cosmetic lifting techniques have significantly reduced recovery times and minimized visible scarring for patients.

  3. 5 stealing (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal

    taking something that does not belong to you, especially from a shop.

    the act of stealing or shoplifting; taking property without permission.

    Example

    The store manager caught a teenager lifting a pair of sunglasses.

    Example

    The security team was alerted to a professional group specialized in lifting high-value electronics from department stores during peak hours.

Word family
Idioms1 entry

© 2026 English Reference