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The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 (gcide)

M \M\, n.
1. (Print.) A quadrat, the face or top of which is a perfect
square; also, the size of such a square in any given size
of type, used as the unit of measurement for that type:
500 m's of pica would be a piece of matter whose length
and breadth in pica m's multiplied together produce that
number. [Written also {em}.]
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2. (law) A brand or stigma, having the shape of an M,
formerly impressed on one convicted of manslaughter and
admitted to the benefit of clergy.
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{M roof} (Arch.), a kind of roof formed by the junction of
two common roofs with a valley between them, so that the
section resembles the letter M.
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M \M\ ([e^]m).
1. M, the thirteenth letter of the English alphabet, is a
vocal consonant, and from the manner of its formation, is
called the labio-nasal consonant. See Guide to
Pronunciation, [sect][sect] 178-180, 242.
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Note: The letter M came into English from the Greek, through
the Latin, the form of the Greek letter being further
derived from the Ph[oe]nician, and ultimately, it is
believed, from the Egyptian. Etymologically M is
related to n, in lime, linden; emmet, ant; also to b.
[1913 Webster] M is readily followed by b and p. the
position of the lips in the formation of both letters
being the same. The relation of b and m is the same as
that of d and t to n. and that of g and k to ng.
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2. As a numeral, M stands for one thousand, both in English
and Latin.
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