troy

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   designating a system of weights used chiefly for precious metals and gemstones

   The dealer quoted the silver price per troy ounce.

2. 2
   noun

   the troy system of weight, in which a pound contains twelve ounces

   Gold is measured by troy rather than by the ordinary avoirdupois system.

From Middle English troye, probably named for Troyes in France, whose medieval fairs were important centers of trade. The term is unrelated to the ancient city of Troy.

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