The Rice University Neologisms Database

the contra-movement of an exercise, especially if performed with a slow and controlled motion. For example: the “positive” of bench press is the exertion direction, e.g. pushing the weight up from the chest Type of Formation: zero derivation (with semantic change achieved through spatial metaphor) Possible Reason Used: The use of the term is twofold. First: it does serve as an in group marker, for neophytes and those not familiar with weight training will not understand what the term means. Second, and most importantly, the term actually serves a practical purpose. It is a technical term that describes a very specific motion with an implicit indication of the manner in which such a motion is to be performed. Therefore, the term carries considerable value both for its role as a litmus test and the broad meaning it bears.