pound

UK: paʊnd | US: paʊnd

Definition

  1. n. a unit of weight equal to 16 ounces (approx. 453 grams)

  2. n. the basic monetary unit of the UK and some other countries

  3. vt. to strike repeatedly with force

  4. vt. to crush or grind something into powder

Structure

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Etymology

The word "pound" has a dual history:

  • As a unit of weight/money, it traces back to Latin pondus, reflecting trade measurements.
  • As a verb, it evolved separately from Germanic roots, mimicking the sound of forceful blows. The two meanings converged in English by spelling but remain distinct in origin.
Examples

  1. She bought a pound of apples at the market.

  2. The British pound strengthened against the dollar.

  3. He used a hammer to pound the nail into the wood.

  4. The recipe calls for a pound of ground beef.

  5. Waves pounded against the shore during the storm.