avoirdupois weight meaning
Noun: avoirdupois weight
- A system of weights based on the 16-ounce pound (or 7,000 grains)
- avoirdupois
Derived forms: avoirdupois weights
Type of: system of weights, weight
Encyclopedia: Avoirdupois weight
[Mechanics]
"The system of units which has been commonly used in English-speaking countries for measurement of the mass of any substance except precious stones, precious metals, and drugs, it is based on the pound (approximately 453.6 grams) and includes the short ton"
[Medicine]
n : a system of weights based on a pound of 16 ounces and an ounce of 437.5 grains (28.350 grams) and in general use in the U.S. except for precious metals, gems, and drugs
Examples
- Prior to 1588, the " part " ( ) was the smallest unit in the avoirdupois weight system.
- In 1588 Queen Elizabeth increased the weight of the avoirdupois pound to grains and added the troy grain to the avoirdupois weight system.
- To alleviate confusion, it is typical when publishing non-avoirdupois weights to mention the name of the system along with the unit.
- Troy weight, avoirdupois weight, and apothecaries'weight are all built from the same basic unit, the grain, which is the same in all three systems.
- I prefer " which is heavier, a 16 ounces of feathers or 16 ounces of gold ? ", as that brings into play the fact that most things are measured in avoirdupois weight, but precious metals are measured in troy weight.