pica Hear it!

pica1 definition

pica (pī′kə)

noun

  1. a size of type, 12 point
  2. the height of this type, about inch: used as a typographical unit of measure
  3. a size of type for typewriters, measuring 10 characters to the linear inch

Etymology: < ? ML(Ec), a directory, church manual (see pie): ? in reference to type used in printing it

pica2 definition

pica (pī′kə)

noun

an abnormal craving to eat substances not fit for food, as clay or paint

Etymology: ModL < L, magpie: see pie

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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