What does "lb." typically refer to in measurements?

In measurements, "lb." is a commonly used abbreviation for pounds, which is a unit of weight in the imperial system. The term derives from the Latin word "libra," meaning scales or balance. Understanding this abbreviation is crucial for dosing medications or interpreting dietary information, especially in contexts where weight management or medication calculations are involved.

The other options represent different units of measurement: liters and milliliters are both used for measuring volume, typically in liquid contexts, while kilograms are part of the metric system for weight. Thus, when encountering "lb.," recognizing it as pounds is essential for accurate understanding and application in various scenarios, particularly in healthcare.