Imperial/US

Pound

Definition

An imperial unit of mass equal to exactly 453.59237 grams (16 avoirdupois ounces), also used as a unit of force (pound-force) equal to 4.44822 newtons.

Explanation

The pound (lb) abbreviation comes from the Latin 'libra pondo' (a pound by weight). As a force unit, one pound-force is the weight of one pound mass under standard gravity (9.80665 m/s²). The US uses pounds for body weight where most countries use kilograms; 1 kg = 2.20462 lb. The pound sterling currency takes its name from a pound of silver.

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RELATED CONVERSIONS

Pound → Kilogram Pound → Gram Pound → Milligram Pound → Microgram Pound → Metric Ton Pound → Ounce
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RELATED ARTICLES

Guide to Weight and Mass Units: Grams, Pounds, and Beyond

From milligrams to metric tons, this guide covers every major weight and mass unit with exact conversion factors, real-world examples, and a clear explanation of why weight and mass are not the same thing.

 Volume Units Guide: Liters, Gallons, Cups, and More

A thorough reference for every major volume unit—metric, US customary, imperial, and culinary—including exact conversion factors, US vs UK differences, and practical cooking and industrial examples.

 Complete Guide to Length Units: From Nanometers to Light-Years

A comprehensive reference covering every major length unit—metric, imperial, nautical, and astronomical—with exact conversion factors and real-world scale examples.
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RELATED TERMS

Imperial System

A system of measurement used primarily in the United States, based on historical English units.

Troy Weight

A system of weights used for precious metals and gemstones.

Avoirdupois

The standard system of weights based on the 16-ounce pound, used for everyday goods.

Horsepower

A unit of power. Mechanical horsepower equals approximately 745.7 watts.

BTU (British Thermal Unit)

The amount of heat needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.