Gramme

/ɡræm/ noun

Definition

A metric unit of mass equal to one thousandth of a kilogram; the British spelling of 'gram'.

Etymology

From French 'gramme,' derived from Greek 'gramma' (a small weight, literally 'something written or marked'), from 'graphein' (to write), as small weights were originally marked with lines to show measurement.

Kelly Says

The word 'gram' comes from 'gramma' meaning 'something marked or written'—ancient people marked tiny weights with lines to show their measurements, which is why the Greek word for 'writing' became our word for small measurements!

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