carat

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA ^(key): /ˈkæ.rət/
• (US) IPA ^(key): /ˈkɛr.ət/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Noun

Singular carat

Plural carats

1. (countable) A carat is a unit of weight used to weigh precious stones. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams.

   The rare emerald weighs over 15 carats.

2. (countable) A unit for measuring the purity of gold. Gold that is 24 carats is completely pure gold. Gold with fewer carats has other metals mixed in.

   While 24-carat gold is the most valuable, it is often too soft for everyday jewellery and can easily bend or scratch.