the weight:

Pronunciation: 'wAt
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English wight, weght, from Old English wiht; akin to Old Norse vætt weight, Old English wegan to weigh
1 a : a unit of weight or mass -- see METRIC SYSTEM table b : a piece of material (as metal) of known specified weight for use in weighing articles c : a system of related units of weight
2 a : something heavy : LOAD b : a heavy object to hold or press something down or to counterbalance
3 a : BURDEN, PRESSURE b : the quality or state of being ponderous c : CORPULENCE
4. The title of a 1968 song by The Band
Synonym see IMPORTANCE, INFLUENCE