an ancient silver money of Athens, the fifth part of a drachma; worth somewhat more than penny-farthing Sterling.—The word comes from the Greek ὀβολός, of σφίτη, "spit, or broach;" either because it bore such an impression; or because, according to Euclidius, it was in form thereof. But those now in the cabinets of the antiquaries are round.

in medicine, is used for a weight of ten grains, or half a scruple.