noun
scruple
A historical weight unit equal to twenty grains.
In the old apothecaries' system, one scruple equals twenty grains.
Etymology
Latin scrupulus means a small sharp stone and also named a small weight. The historical unit preserves that measurement use at twenty grains.
More examples
- The historical prescription calls for two scruples of powdered ginger.
- Three scruples make one apothecaries' dram.
- The pharmacist weighed out half a scruple on a small balance.
Forms
scruple · scruples