In 8 cargo, cargau. [Sp. carga load, cogn. with F. charge, It. carica, f. caricare, in late L. carricāre to load: see CHARGE, CARGO.] A ‘load’ as a measure of weight (see quots.).
1622. Malynes, Anc. Law-Merch., 26. They account also by Cargaos of 400lb smal weight.
1704. J. Harris, Lex. Techn., s.v. Weight, At Antwerp … The carga, or charge, 400 l., which is two Bales of 200 l. each, for an Horse to carry.
1712. W. Rogers, Voy. (1718), 199. Each Cargau 81 Pound weight.
1753. Chambers, Cycl. Supp., Cargo also denotes a weight used in Spain and Turky, amounting to about 300 English pounds.
1850. Prescott, Peru, II. 103. Two hundred cargas, or loads of gold.
