GRAM (3)

Gram, Gramme (?), n. [[F. gramme, from Gr. ? that which is written, a letter, a small weight, fr. ? to write. See Graphic.]] The unit of weight in the metric system. It was intended to be exactly, and is very nearly, equivalent to the weight in a vacuum of one cubic centimeter of pure water at its maximum density. It is equal to 15.432 grains. See Grain, n., 4. Gram degree, or Gramme degree (Physics), a unit of heat, being the amount of heat necessary to raise the temperature of one gram of pure water one degree centigrade. — Gram equivalent (Electrolysis), that quantity of the metal which will replace one gram of hydrogen.