Ream Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
ream
[riหm ]
Definitions
paper measurement
A ream is a unit of measurement for paper, traditionally indicating a total of 500 sheets. It is commonly used in the paper industry and is essential for both purchasing and selling paper. The concept of a ream dates back to the 15th century and has historical significance in standardizing paper quantities. Beyond paper, the term can sometimes refer to a large quantity of various materials.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I bought a ream of printer paper for the office.
- The contract specified a ream of paper to be delivered.
- He used a ream of old pages for his art project.
slang term
In informal contexts, 'ream' can also refer to a significant amount of something, often used with a connotation of excess. It is considered slang and is frequently employed in conversational English to describe overwhelming quantities.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I got a ream of work to do this weekend.
- There was a ream of information that I had to digest.
- He had a ream of excuses ready for his tardiness.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural References
- In publishing and printing, a ream is often seen as a unit of measure for bulk orders.
- The term appears in various idioms such as 'reaming someone out,' referring to reprimanding someone harshly, showing how language can evolve in different contexts.
Science
- In fields like biochemistry, terms derived from 'ream' are used metaphorically to describe large quantities, akin to bulk measurements in experiments.
- A ream of paper can have an environmental impactโconsidering how trees are used to produce paper products.
Literature
- Authors often describe a storm of thoughts or ideas as a 'ream of words' that need to be put on paper.
- In poetry, the imagery of a ream can symbolize abundance or overwhelming feelings expressed through writing.
Business
- In office supply companies, the sale of reams represents a significant portion of paper sales, highlighting its importance in everyday business operations.
- Purchasing paper in reams is often more economical for businesses, as it reduces the cost per sheet.
Origin of 'ream'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'ream' comes from the Arabic word 'rizma,' where it meant a bundle of paper.
- In the 16th century, it was used in English to describe a specific quantity of sheets.
- The commonly used count of 500 sheets has been standardized over time, but it has varied historically.
The term 'ream' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'raime', which itself comes from the Arabic 'rizma', meaning 'a bundle'. This terminology was historically associated with the quantity of paper and other sheets. Over the centuries, the definition of a ream has fluctuated with various cultures standardizing it to the current measurement of 500 sheets. Despite the evolution of the term, its core meaning remained centered around the idea of bulk and quantity, particularly in trades involving materials like paper, textiles, and other goods. The concept of a 'ream' also emphasizes the importance of standardization in commerce and industry, allowing for easier transactions and procurement.