Avoirdupois

Pronunciation: /ævərdəˌpɔɪz/

Definitions of avoirdupois

noun a system of weights based on a pound of 16 ounces or 7,000 grains

Example Sentences

A1 I don't understand the concept of avoirdupois.

A2 The avoirdupois system is commonly used in the United States for measuring weight.

B1 In the avoirdupois system, a pound is equal to 16 ounces.

B2 Avoirdupois weight is often used in trade and commerce.

C1 The avoirdupois system is based on a pound of 16 ounces.

C2 Understanding the avoirdupois system is essential for accurate measurements in certain industries.

Examples of avoirdupois in a Sentence

formal The avoirdupois system is commonly used for measuring weight in the United States.

informal I have no idea how to convert pounds to kilograms in avoirdupois.

slang I'm trying to shed some avoirdupois before summer hits.

figurative The avoirdupois of responsibility on his shoulders was overwhelming.

Grammatical Forms of avoirdupois

• past tense: avoirdupoised
• plural: avoirdupoises
• comparative: more avoirdupois
• superlative: most avoirdupois
• present tense: avoirdupoises
• future tense: will avoirdupois
• perfect tense: has avoirdupoised
• continuous tense: is avoirdupoising
• singular: avoirdupois
• positive degree: avoirdupois
• infinitive: to avoirdupois
• gerund: avoirdupoising
• participle: avoirdupoising

Origin and Evolution of avoirdupois

First Known Use: 1300 year

Language of Origin: Old French

Story behind the word: The word 'avoirdupois' comes from Old French 'aveir de pois' which means 'goods of weight'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to refer to a system of weights used in commerce, 'avoirdupois' later came to specifically refer to a system of weight measurement for goods, especially in the British Imperial system.