Decigram

/ˈdɛsɪɡræm/ noun

Definition

A metric unit of mass equal to one-tenth of a gram, or 100 milligrams.

Etymology

From French 'déci-' (one-tenth) plus 'gram' (from Greek 'gramma' meaning written mark, used for weight). The metric system created this unit systematically in the 1790s using Latin prefixes to denote powers of ten.

Kelly Says

The metric system is beautifully logical—once you know that 'deci-' means one-tenth, you instantly understand decigrams, deciliters, and decimeters without memorizing anything new. The French revolutionaries designed it this way deliberately, as a gift to human rationality.

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