Agate

Pronunciation

• US IPA: /ˈæɡ.et/

From Middle French agathe, from Latin achatēs, from Ancient Greek ἀχάτης (akhatēs, "agate").

Full definition of agate

Noun

1. (countable, uncountable, mineral) 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. (uncountable, US, printing) 5.5-point size of type, larger than pearl and smaller than nonpareil; in England called ruby.
3. (countable, obsolete) A diminutive person; so called in allusion to the small figures cut in agate for rings and seals.
4. (countable) A tool used by gold-wire drawers, bookbinders, etc.;—so called from the agate fixed in it for burnishing.
5. (slang, usually in plural) A testicle.

Synonyms

• (printing) ruby Britain

Hyponyms

• (mineralogy) fortification agate, Scotch pebble; moss agate, clouded agate

Derived terms

• moss agate
• agate line
• agateware

Related terms

• aggie

Pronunciation

• US IPA: /ʌˈɡat/

-("on") + gate("way")

Adverb

1. (obsolete) On the way; agoing.to be agate; to set the bells agate----