Have you ever paused while reading a recipe and wondered why “pound” is abbreviated as “lb”? It’s a fair question, considering the letters don’t seem to align. The story behind this peculiar abbreviation takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of language and measurement.
The abbreviation “lb” for pound originates from ancient Rome. The Romans used the term “libra pondo,” which translates to “a pound by weight” in Latin. While the English word “pound” comes from the “pondo” part of the phrase, the abbreviation “lb” is directly derived from “libra.” This connection to “libra” also explains why the symbol for the British pound is £, resembling an L with a line through it. Historically, the pound’s value was equivalent to the price of a pound of silver, according to the BBC. Interestingly, the former Italian currency, the lira, also shares its etymological roots with “libra,” highlighting the lasting influence of Roman measurement systems.
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If “libra” sounds familiar, it might be because it’s also the name of the seventh sign of the zodiac, often symbolized by scales. This association stems from the sign’s connection to balance and its relation to weights and measurements.
Understanding Ounces (oz) and Their Historical Link
The story of “ounce” is equally intriguing. An ounce, equivalent to 1/16 of a pound, traces its origin to the Latin word “uncia,” which denoted both a Roman unit of weight and length. As The Week explains, the Anglo-Norman French language, which evolved in England following the Norman invasion of 1066 C.E., transformed “uncia” into “ounce.”
The Curious Case of “Oz”
The abbreviation “oz” has a different path. It comes from medieval Italian, where the Latin “uncia” became “onza,” introducing the “z” that persists in the English abbreviation today.
Common Questions About Pounds (lb)
Is lb. metric or imperial?
Pounds (lb) belong to the imperial measurement system. The metric equivalent is kilograms, with 1 kilogram equaling approximately 2.2 pounds. The imperial system is primarily used in the United States, while most of the world uses the metric system.
What is the plural abbreviation of pounds?
The abbreviation for both one pound and multiple pounds is “lb.” While standard practice dictates that abbreviated measurements remain singular, some guidelines accept “lbs” as correct for the plural form. However, “lb” is the universally recognized and preferred abbreviation. Using “lb” avoids any ambiguity.
In conclusion, the abbreviation “lb” for pound, and the seemingly random “z” in “oz” for ounce, have compelling historical roots. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of language and measurement systems. Understanding these origins enriches our appreciation for the everyday units we use.
