Ounce: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in informal speech or writing to refer to a small amount, usually when talking about weight or volume.

• Can I borrow an ounce of sugar?
• An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

This term is often used to measure weight in the United States. It is commonly used for both everyday items and culinary ingredients.

• This steak weighs about 8 ounces.
• Can you add 5 ounces of cheese to the salad?

Short for 'fluid ounce,' this term is used to measure volume, especially of liquids. It is frequently used in recipes, beverages, and for measuring liquids in general.

• The recipe calls for 2 fl oz of olive oil.
• This bottle holds 16 fl oz of water.