apothecaries' measure

noun

1. a system of units used chiefly in compounding and dispensing liquid drugs. In the U.S. 60 minims (♍) = 1 fluid dram (f); 8 fluid drams = 1 fluid ounce (f); 16 fluid ounces = 1 pint (O.); 8 pints = 1 gallon (C.) (231 cubic inches). In Great Britain 20 minims = 1 fluid scruple; 3 fluid scruples = 1 fluid dram; 8 fluid drams = 1 fluid ounce; 20 fluid ounces = 1 pint; 8 pints = 1 imperial gallon (277.42 cubic inches).

apothecaries' measure

noun

1. a system of liquid volume measure used in pharmacy in which 60 minims equal 1 fluid drachm, 8 fluid drachms equal 1 fluid ounce, and 20 fluid ounces equal 1 pint

Word History and Origins

Origin of apothecaries' measure¹

First recorded in 1895–1900