dom1..
Thanks for a very interesting question. According to dictionary.com,
http://www.dictionary.com,
http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=pound, a pound is a unit of
weight equal to 16 ounces or 453.592 grams. The abbreviation, as you
pointed out, when pound is used in this definition, is "lb". This
abbreviation comes from the latin Roman term "libra" which means pound
and was a measure of weight used by the ancient Romans. At one time
in England, there were actually 6 different weights for pounds, based
upon what we being measured. Henry VIII began the standardization and
Elizabeth I finished the standardization by dividing the pound into
7000 grains which equalled 16 ounces. The abbreviation LB dates back
to those times in England and came with the original British settlers
to the United States. As a matter of fact, the symbol for the British
monetary unit, an L with a line through it, is based on the same
premise of the word libra.
Thanks again for your question and I hope the information I have
provided has been helpful. If you need any additional clarification,
please let me know.
Regards,
-THV
Search Strategy:
history of pound
abrreviation of pound lp
References:
English on the Internet
http://www.aj.cz/useeng/youknow.htm
Avery Berkel - History of Weighing
http://averberk02.uuhost.uk.uu.net/CORPINT/6000YEAR.HTM |
