Did you know?
In avoirdupois weight—that is, the system of weights commonly used in North America and the United Kingdom—a dram is equal to 1/16 ounce (1.772 grams). The word dram was borrowed from the Anglo-French and Late Latin word dragme, which was originally used for a silver coin used by the ancient Greeks (now known in English as the drachma) as well as for the coin's approximate weight. In the 16th century, English speakers began also using dram for a weight of fluid measure (also called a fluid dram) equal to 1/8 fluid ounce, and more loosely for any small portion of something to drink. Dram is also used figuratively for any small amount, in much the same way as grain and ounce.
Examples of dram in a Sentence
Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
Eerie voices seem to cry in the howling weather outside; the five figures draw close over their bottles and drams, wondering what might stand beyond the door.
—Helen Shaw, New Yorker, 11 July 2025
Some games don’t mix with drinking, either: Jenga is at the top of that list as stacking bricks becomes almost impossible a few drams in.
—Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 11 July 2025
Massachusetts has dram shop laws on the books, which hold bars and other establishments selling alcohol liable for damages caused by an intoxicated person.
—Boston Herald Editorial Staff, Boston Herald, 20 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for dram
Cite this Entry
“Dram.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dram. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
dram
noun
Share