dram

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/dræm/

Definitions

• A small unit of weight, traditionally used in pharmacy and apothecary systems, equal to 1/16 of an ounce or approximately 1.77 grams.
• A small drink of liquor, often used in the context of spirits or alcohol.
• A small amount or portion of something, often used figuratively to refer to a slight or minimal quantity.

Usage Examples

• The pharmacist measured out a dram of the medication for the patient.
• He poured a dram of whiskey into his glass, savoring the rich flavor.
• Just a dram of luck is all I need to win this game.

Etymology

The word "dram" comes from the Middle English word "drame," which is derived from the Greek word "drakhmē," meaning "a small coin" or "a unit of weight." It was used in the ancient Greek system of measurement and later adopted into various European systems, particularly in medieval pharmacy for measuring small doses.

Synonyms

• bit
• sip
• portion
• measure

Antonyms

• abundance
• fullness
• plenty

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "dram" may vary slightly in different English-speaking regions. In British English, it is often pronounced with a shorter 'a,' as "dræm," while in American English, the pronunciation may be slightly elongated, though the difference is subtle.

Historical Usage

Historically, the dram was used as a unit of weight in the apothecary system, where it played a crucial role in measuring medicine and chemicals. Over time, its use expanded into everyday language as a measure of small quantities, particularly in reference to drinks like whiskey and other spirits. Its popularity was linked to the necessity of precise measurements in both scientific and commercial practices.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, "dram" is synonymous with a small drink of alcohol, particularly in the context of whiskey or other spirits. It has become a colloquial term in settings where sharing a small drink is a social or celebratory act. In contrast, the term is used in more technical contexts when referring to measurement, especially in pharmaceuticals and historical sciences.

More Information

The word "dram" has evolved from a unit of measurement in ancient Greece and Rome to a common term used in modern-day English to describe a small amount of liquid or weight. In historical settings, it was crucial for apothecaries and medical practitioners to use such small measurements accurately for preparing medicines. Today, while it is still used in contexts like measuring alcohol or discussing small quantities, the term is less common in everyday language, except in specific professions or social settings.