catchweight I. \ˈ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷\noun Etymology:catch (I) + weight : the weight of a contestant in a sports event as he happens or chooses to be instead of as fixed by an agreement or by rule < many interesting bouts at catchweights — John Lardner > II. adverb : without restriction or artificial handicap as to the weight of contestants in a sports event < to fight catchweight >