Word of the Day : November 30, 2018

dram \DRAM\ noun

Definition

1 a : a unit of avoirdupois weight equal to 1/16 ounce

b : a unit of apothecaries' weight equal to 1/8 ounce

c : a unit of liquid capacity equal to 1/8 fluid ounce

2 a : a small portion of something to drink

b : a small amount

Did You Know?

In avoirdupois weight—that is, the system of weights commonly used in North America and the United Kingdom—a dram is equal to 1/16 ounce (1.772 grams). The word dram was borrowed from the Anglo-French and Late Latin word dragme, which was originally used for a silver coin used by the ancient Greeks (now known in English as the drachma) as well as for the coin's approximate weight. In the 16th century, English speakers began also using dram for a weight of fluid measure (also called a fluid dram) equal to 1/8 fluid ounce, and more loosely for any small portion of something to drink. Dram is also used figuratively for any small amount, in much the same way as grain and ounce.

Aired November 30, 2018

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