Meaning & Definition of word "Ounce"

Ounce

/aʊns/

noun:

  • 1. A unit of weight equal to one-sixteenth of a pound or approximately 28.35 grams.
    • Example: The recipe calls for two ounces of cheese.
  • 2. A small amount or portion.
    • Example: He wouldn't give an ounce of effort in the project.
  • 3. A unit of liquid capacity equal to one-eighth of a cup or approximately 29.57 milliliters.
    • Example: She filled the measuring cup to eight ounces of water.

Etymology

Middle English unce, from Latin uncia, meaning one twelfth.

Common Phrases and Expressions

ounce of prevention:

A proactive measure to prevent issues.

an ounce of gold:

Referring to a measure of valuable resources.

once in a blue moon:

Something that happens very rarely.

Related Words

pound:

A larger unit of weight equal to sixteen ounces.

gram:

A metric unit of mass equal to one thousandth of a kilogram.

weight:

A measure of the heaviness of an object.

Slang Meanings of ounce

Meaning: Refers to an ounce of drugs, especially marijuana.

Example Sentence: He bought an ounce for the party.

Meaning: Informal term for a small quantity.

Example Sentence: You only need an ounce of creativity to start.