svoris

svoris is a Lithuanian noun meaning weight. In physics, svoris denotes the gravitational force acting on a body, equal to the product of its mass and the local acceleration due to gravity. In everyday language, svoris also appears as a metaphor for burden or importance.

Mass and weight are distinct quantities. Mass (masė) is the amount of matter in an object and remains constant regardless of location; svoris (weight) changes with gravity. On Earth, one kilogram of mass experiences a weight of about 9.81 newtons, whereas on the Moon it would be about 1.62 newtons per kilogram of mass.

Units and measurement: Weight is measured in newtons (N) in the SI system, while mass is measured in kilograms (kg). In daily use, scales and weighing devices in Lithuanian contexts may display either mass (kg) or weight (N). Weighing is done with scales (svarstyklės) or force meters.

Usage beyond physics: The word svoris is used figuratively to refer to the significance or burden of something, as in discussions of the weight of a decision or evidence.