M , n. 1.
(Print.) A quadrat, the face or top of which is a perfect square; also, the size of such a square
in any given size of
type, used as the unit of measurement for that type: 500 m's of pica would be
a piece of matter whose length and breadth in pica m's
multiplied together produce that number. [Written also em.]
2. (law) A brand or stigma, having the shape of
an M, formerly impressed on one convicted of manslaughter and admitted to the benefit of clergy.
M roof (Arch.), a kind of roof
formed by the junction of two common
roofs with a valley between them, so that
the section resembles the letter M.
M (&ebreve;m). 1. M, the thirteenth letter of the English alphabet, is a vocal consonant, and from the manner of its
formation, is called the labio-nasal consonant. See Guide to Pronunciation, §§ 178-180,
242.
The letter
M came into
English from the Greek, through the Latin, the form of the Greek letter being further derived from the Phœnician, and ultimately, it is believed, from the Egyptian. Etymologically M is related
to n, in
lime, linden;
emmet, ant; also to b.
M is readily
followed by b and p. the
position of the lips in the
formation of both letters being the same. The
relation of b and m
is the same
as that of
d and t to n.
and that of
g and k to ng.
2. As a numeral, M stands for one thousand, both in English and Latin.
Hear it pronounced