Pound

Definition

The term "pound" can refer to a unit of weight (equal to 16 ounces), a unit of currency used in several countries, or the action of striking repeatedly with force.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /paʊnd/
• Respelling: POWND

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /paʊnd/
• Respelling: POWND

Etymology

The word "pound" originates from the Old English "pund," meaning a weight or measure. It is derived from the Latin "pondo," which relates to "libra pondo" (a pound by weight). Its use as a currency unit is tied to the historical weight of silver coins in Britain.

Derivatives

• Pounding (verb/noun)
• Pounder (noun)
• Poundage (noun)
• Pound-weight (noun)
• Re-pound (verb)

Synonyms

• Strike (verb)
• Hammer (verb)
• Weight (noun)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The word "pound" is used in various contexts, including weight measurement, currency, and physical actions. For example: "The recipe requires one pound of sugar," or "He began to pound on the door impatiently."

Related Terms

• Ounce: A smaller unit of weight.
• Kilogram: A metric unit of weight.
• Currency: A system of money used in a particular country.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A unit of weight: Refers to a measure equal to 16 ounces or approximately 0.454 kilograms.
  • Example: "The package weighs two pounds."
• A unit of currency: Refers to the official money used in countries like the United Kingdom (GBP).
  • Example: "He exchanged 100 US dollars for 75 British pounds."
• An enclosure for animals: Refers to a holding area for stray or lost animals.
  • Example: "The dog was taken to the animal pound.

Verb

• To strike repeatedly and forcefully: Describes the action of hitting or hammering something with intensity.
  • Example: "He began to pound the nail into the wood."
• To beat rhythmically: Refers to a steady and repeated motion or sound.
  • Example: "Her heart pounded with excitement."
• To crush or grind: Describes breaking something into smaller pieces by striking or grinding.
  • Example: "She pounded the spices with a mortar and pestle."