ounce

ounce · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A unit of weight equal to one sixteenth of a pound (approximately 28.35 grams).

  2. 2.

    A unit of liquid capacity equal to one twentieth of a pint (UK) or one sixteenth of a pint (US).

  3. 3.

    A very small amount.

Forms

plural: ounces

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure — it's easier to prevent problems than fix them
  • •
    not an ounce — not even a tiny amount

Related words

See also: gram, ounces, oz, pound
Synonyms: oz

Etymology

From Latin uncia ("a twelfth part"), via Old French unce.