Word
pumping iron
Definition
idiom. to lift heavy weights as a way to exercise and build strong muscles.
idiom. to engage in intensive weightlifting or bodybuilding. This figurative expression is informal and specifically refers to resistance training with free weights or machines.
Examples
“He spends every morning pumping iron at the local gym.”
“If you want to get bigger arms, you'll need to start pumping iron at least three times a week.”
“While some athletes prefer cardiovascular endurance training, others find a meditative satisfaction in pumping iron within the confines of a weight room.”
Examples
simple
“He spends every morning pumping iron at the local gym.”
contextual
“If you want to get bigger arms, you'll need to start pumping iron at least three times a week.”
complex
“While some athletes prefer cardiovascular endurance training, others find a meditative satisfaction in pumping iron within the confines of a weight room.”
Usage
Usually used in a continuous tense to describe a regular hobby or a specific workout session.
Teaching tip
The 'iron' refers to the metal plates used on barbells and dumbbells; it is a great example of synecdoche where the material represents the object.
Pitfall
He is pumping irons at the gym.
He is pumping iron at the gym.
The word 'iron' is uncountable in this idiom and should never be pluralized.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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