Scruples
Scruples
Scruples (/ˈskruːpəlz/) is a term used in the medical field, particularly in the measurement of weight. It is an old apothecary weight system that was used in the past. The term is derived from the Latin word scrupulus, a small sharp stone.
Definition
A scruple is a unit of weight that is equal to 20 grains or 1/3 of a dram. It was used in the Apothecaries' system of weights, a system used by physicians and pharmacists to measure medication. This system is no longer in common use, having been largely replaced by the metric system.
Usage
In the Apothecaries' system, the scruple was used to measure the weight of small amounts of active ingredients in medications. It was also used in the measurement of precious metals.
Related Terms
- Grain: A unit of weight in the apothecaries' system, equal to 1/20 of a scruple.
- Dram: A unit of weight in the apothecaries' system, equal to 3 scruples.
- Apothecaries' system: An old system of weights used by physicians and pharmacists.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Scruples
- Wikipedia's article - Scruples
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