Definition
As a Noun
- Ream (noun): A ream is a standard package of 500 sheets of paper, commonly used in office and educational settings. It serves as a fundamental unit of measure in the paper industry.
As a Verb
- Ream (verb): To ream can mean to bore a hole in something or to squeeze the juice out of an object. Metaphorically, it is often used to indicate achieving a significant victory or advantage over an opponent, as in, “We reamed them.”
Examples
Noun Usage
- Office Supplies: “Please order two reams of printer paper for the office.”
- Print Shop: “The print shop always keeps a dozen reams in stock for large projects.”
Verb Usage
- Mechanical Process: “The worker used a drill to ream the hole for the new pipeline.”
- Metaphorical Usage: “In the final match, our team reamed the competition, scoring five goals to none.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a ream of paper used for?
A ream of paper is typically used as a standard measurement for purchasing and using paper in bulk, essential in offices, schools, and print shops.
How many sheets are in a ream of paper?
A ream traditionally consists of 500 individual sheets of paper.
Can the term ‘ream’ be used in different contexts?
Yes, ‘ream’ can also be a verb and is used to describe the action of boring a hole or squeezing juice out. It has a metaphorical application where it denotes achieving a significant victory.
Is ‘ream’ used internationally?
Yes, ‘ream’ as a unit of 500 sheets of paper is used internationally, though the exact number of sheets may vary slightly in different countries.
Related Terms
- Quire: A quire is a set of 25 sheets of paper, which is one-twentieth of a ream.
- Bundle: In the paper industry, a bundle often refers to a set package of papers, typically more than a ream.
- Drilling: The action of using a drill or similar tool to bore holes into materials.
- Juicing: The process of extracting juice from fruits or vegetables, often used metaphorically similar to ‘ream.’
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Paper Trail: An Unexpected History of a Revolutionary Invention” by Alexander Monro
- “The Office Copying Revolution: History and Impacts” by Alan Sinclair
- “The Oxford English Dictionary” - for extended definitions and examples.
- “Advanced Technical Drilling Techniques” by Simon Dennis - for an in-depth understanding of drilling and similar mechanical processes.
Fundamentals of REAM: Business Terminology Basics Quiz
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