Apothecaries’ << uh POTH uh `kehr` eez, >> weight, is a system of weights once widely used by druggists for prescriptions. The metric system has replaced it. Apothecaries’ weight divides the pound into 12 ounces, the ounce into 8 drams, the dram into 3 scruples, and the scruple into 20 grains. In the apothecaries’ system, 5,760 grains make 1 pound (0.373 kilogram) and 480 grains make 1 ounce (31 grams). See also Metric system ; Ounce ; Pound ; Weights and measures .
