Definition

1. Noun:
   • A unit of currency: The dram is the basic monetary unit of Armenia.
   • A unit of weight (avoirdupois): A unit of mass equal to 1/16 of an ounce (approximately 1.771 grams).
   • A unit of weight (apothecaries'): A unit of mass in the apothecaries' system, equal to 1/8 of an ounce or 60 grains.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Currency):
  • The price of bread is 300 dram.
  • I exchanged my dollars for Armenian dram at the bank.
• Noun (Weight - Avoirdupois):
  • The letter weighed just over one dram.
  • In this recipe, a dram of the spice is sufficient.
• Noun (Weight - Apothecaries'):
  • The old medical recipe called for two drams of the powder.

Advanced Usage

• "To have/take a dram": This is an idiomatic, chiefly British expression meaning to drink a small amount of spirits, especially whisky.
  • After the long walk, he stopped at the pub to have a dram.

Variants and Related Words

• Drachm: An alternative spelling, especially for the unit of weight.
• Dramatic (adj): Pertaining to drama; striking. (Note: This is a distinct word derived from "drama," not directly from "dram," but learners may confuse them due to similarity).
• Dramshop (n, archaic): A bar or tavern where alcoholic drinks are sold.

Synonyms

• Currency Unit: (No direct synonym; it is a specific currency name).
• Small Weight: Scruple (another small apothecary weight), pinch, bit.
• Small Drink: Nip, shot, tot, drop.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

(Not applicable for this noun)

Related Idioms

• "A wee dram": A small drink of whisky (common in Scottish and Irish English).
  • He offered me a wee dram to warm up from the cold.

Noun

1. the basic unit of money in Armenia
2. 1/16 ounce or 1.771 grams
3. a unit of apothecary weight equal to an eighth of an ounce or to 60 grains