Abbreviations

Date: Thu, 01 Dec 1994 08:54:57 -0500
From: Anonymous
Subject: Math question

Dear Dr. Math,

Our junior high math classes understand how most abbreviations in math can
be explained.  For example, qt. = quart; in. = inch; and oz = ounce.

But how did we get lb. for pound?

Thank you for your time.

Mrs. Erdy's junior high classes
Ridgemont Junior/Senior High School
Ridgeway, OH   43345

Date: Thu, 1 Dec 1994 11:45:25 -0500 (EST) 
From: Dr. Ken
Subject: Re: Math question

Hello there!

The abbreviation for pound comes from the Latin word _libra_, which was a
unit of weight roughly equal to 3/4 of a pound.  Some related words are the
zodiacal sign "Libra" (the scales, or the balance) and librarian.

Just kidding about the librarian.  That's from the latin root _liber_,
meaning "book."

-Ken "Dr." Math