Definition

Noun: - A system of weights: Avoirdupois weight is a system of measurement for mass based on a pound divided into 16 ounces. It is the everyday system of weights used in countries like the United States and, historically, in the United Kingdom for measuring most goods, excluding precious metals, gems, and pharmaceuticals.

Usage

• As a subject or object: The term is used to specify the particular weight system being discussed or employed.
  • The produce was measured using avoirdupois weight.
  • Avoirdupois weight is common in US grocery stores.

Examples

• In a factual statement:
  • In the avoirdupois weight system, one pound equals 16 ounces.
• In a comparative context:
  • Precious metals are measured in troy weight, not avoirdupois weight.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Legal Context: The term is often used in historical, commercial, or legal texts to distinguish it from other systems like troy weight or apothecaries' weight.
  • The contract specified that the shipment must be weighed in avoirdupois weight.

Variants and Related Words

• Avoirdupois (noun): Often used synonymously with "avoirdupois weight," but can also refer to the heaviness of a person's body in a humorous or informal context.
  • He was more concerned with his avoirdupois than with the technicalities of the weight system.
• Avoirdupois pound: The specific pound unit within this system, equal to 7,000 grains or approximately 453.592 grams.

Synonyms

• Common weight system: A descriptive synonym highlighting its everyday use.
• Imperial weight (for mass): While not perfectly equivalent, this is sometimes used, especially in historical contexts before metrication, as the avoirdupois system was part of the British Imperial system.

Related Phrases

• "In avoirdupois": A phrase meaning measured according to this system.
  • The flour was sold in avoirdupois.

Noun

1. a system of weights based on the 16-ounce pound (or 7,000 grains)