agate

  1. Noun.  (countable, uncountable) A semi-pellucid, uncrystallized variety of quartz, presenting various tints in the same specimen, with colors delicately arranged in stripes or bands, or blended in clouds.
  2. Noun.  (uncountable, printing) A kind of type, larger than pearl and smaller than nonpareil; in England called ruby.
  3. Noun.  (countable, obsolete) A diminutive person; so called in allusion to the small figures cut in agate for rings and seals.
  4. Noun.  (countable) A tool used by gold-wire drawers, bookbinders, etc.;—so called from the agate fixed in it for burnishing.
  5. Adverb.  (obsolete) On the way; agoing; as, to be agate; to set the bells agate.

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This entry was last updated on RefTopia from its source on 3/20/2012.