Date:  Mon, 18 Aug 1997 16:31:22 -0400
From:  Jesse T Sheidlower <jester[AT SYMBOL GOES HERE]PANIX.COM>
Subject: Re: ounce(s)

>
> Does anyone have a cogent explanation for the _z_ in the abbreviation of
> _ounce_? Derivation from Lat. uncia via MEng. unce doesn't shed much light
> on the issue.

It's an abbreviation of Italian _onza._ Plural is also _oz._