| a system of weights used chiefly in compounding and dispensing drugs: 20 grains = 1 scruple (℈); 3 scruples = 1 dram (dr); 8 drams = 1 ounce); 12 ounces = 1 pound. The grain, ounce, and pound are the same as in troy weight, the grain alone being the same as in avoirdupois weight. |
apothecaries' weight n.
A system of weights used in compounding prescriptions and in which an ounce equals 480 grains and a pound equals 12 ounces.
apothecaries' weight  (ə-pŏth'ĭ-kěr'ēz) Pronunciation Key
A system of weights used in pharmacy and based on an ounce equal to 480 grains and a pound equal to 12 ounces. It has been largely replaced by measures of the metric system. |