Schockgewicht

Schockgewicht refers to a historical unit of weight used in Germany and other parts of Central Europe. The precise value of a Schockgewicht varied regionally and over time, but it was generally based on a multiple of the number twelve, often 60 or 120 units. For example, one Schock could be equal to five Dutzend (dozens), making it 60 units. Alternatively, it could be understood as ten Dutzend, or 120 units. This unit was commonly used for trade, particularly for goods sold in bulk such as grain, wool, or spices. Its prevalence declined with the adoption of standardized metric systems. The term itself is derived from the German word "Schock," meaning a shock or a group of sixty. Understanding Schockgewicht requires recognizing its historical context as a pre-modern measurement system that reflected local trade practices and evolving economic structures. Its disappearance marks a broader trend towards globalized standardization in commerce and measurement.