The term "dram" has multiple meanings depending on the context:
- Unit of Weight :
- In the avoirdupois system, a dram is a unit of mass equal to 1/16 of an avoirdupois ounce, or exactly 1.7718 grams.
- In the apothecaries' system (used historically in medicine), a dram is equal to 1/8 of an apothecaries' ounce and approximately 3.888 grams.
- Unit of Volume :
- The fluid dram is a unit of volume equal to 1/8 of a fluid ounce.
- In the U.S. customary system, one fluid dram equals about 3.7 milliliters.
- In the British imperial system, it's about 3.55 milliliters.
- Informal Measure for Alcohol :
- "Dram" is commonly used to mean a small amount of liquor, especially Scotch whisky. It's less than a teaspoon, typically about 1/8 of a fluid ounce, often used colloquially to indicate a small drink or tasting amount.
- In Computing (DRAM) :
- DRAM stands for Dynamic Random Access Memory, a type of computer memory used for temporary data storage that requires constant refreshing.
The word "dram" originates from the ancient Greek "drachma," which referred to both a coin and weight unit. Over time, its meaning evolved to include these various uses.
Let me know if you want details about a specific meaning of dram.
