Gowpen

/ˈɡaʊpən/ noun

Definition

A double handful; the amount that can be held in two cupped hands together, used as a traditional measurement in Scottish dialect.

Etymology

From Scottish and Northern English dialect, possibly derived from Old Norse or Old English roots related to grasping or holding; used since medieval times as a practical unit of measurement.

Kelly Says

Before standard measurements existed, people measured grain and other goods by 'gowpens'—your own hands were always with you, so handfulls made perfect portable measurement tools.

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