What does the word DRAM (as in DRAM vial) stand for ?

[tadah]

Thanks.

[JGK]

the dram can be a measure of weight or volume.

A fluid dram is equal to 1/8 of a fluid ounce (3.70 milliliters).http://www.thefreedictionary.com/fluid+dram

A dram is:
A unit of weight in the U.S. Customary System equal to 1/16 of an ounce or 27.34 grains (1.77 grams) or,
A unit of apothecary weight equal to 1/8 of an ounce or 60 grains (3.89 grams).http://www.thefreedictionary.com/DRAM

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/measurement

[lmh]

every time I look at the confusing world of avoirdupois drams and apothecaries' drams I am grateful for the metric system. I am pleased that I have no scruples. Milligrams may go against the grain, but I'm not imperialistic in my units. Try the wikipedia page for more background, especially a side-line on the size of the British tea-spoon (a much undervalued unit). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dram_(unit)

[Peter Apps]

In Britain a "wee dram" refers to a shot of spirits (usually whisk(e)y). Its standard volume is legally defined as 1/4, 1/5 or 1/6 of a gill, and a gill is 1/4 of a pint, which is 20 fluid ounces. In metric, standard retail shots are either 25 or 35 ml. Have a look at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcoholic_spirits_measure

Peter