Dram

/dræm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A small unit of weight equal to 1/16 of an ounce or 1/256 of a pound, used in measuring precious metals and gemstones.

The jeweler weighed the diamond and found it to be two drams.

A small amount of a liquid, especially alcohol.

He poured himself a dram of whiskey to enjoy after dinner.

In the context of apothecary measurements, a unit of volume equivalent to 1/8 of a fluid ounce.

The recipe called for a dram of the herbal extract.

From Middle English 'dram', from Old French 'drachme', from Latin 'drachma', from Ancient Greek 'δραχμή'.

take a dram

to have a short drink, typically of whiskey.

a dram of truth

a small amount of truth in a situation.

ounce

A unit of weight equivalent to 1/16 of a pound.

shot

A small amount of liquor taken at once.

A small amount of alcohol.

I'll just have a dram before heading home.

A brief moment.

I'll be back in a dram, just need to grab my keys.