agate
/əˈɡeɪt/
Frequency: 2.81 in modern English
Meaning
noun
A semitransparent, uncrystallized silicate mineral and semiprecious stone, presenting various tints in the same specimen, with colors delicately arranged and often curved in parallel alternating dark and light stripes or bands, or blended in clouds; various authorities call it a variety of chalcedony, a variety of quartz, or a combination of the two.
Countable; Uncountable
noun
The size of type between pearl and nonpareil, standardized as 5+¹⁄₂-point.
American usage; Dated; Uncountable
noun
A diminutive person; so called in allusion to the small figures cut in agate for rings and seals.
Countable; Obsolete
noun
A tool used by gold-wire drawers, bookbinders, etc.;—so called from the agate fixed in it for burnishing.
Countable
Example Sentences
- "The ends of the veil, drawn over her head, were embroidered with silver; she had long gold ear-rings; to a rich and large gold chain was suspended a cross set with precious stones; and over the arm of her chair hung a rosary of agate beads."
- "Yes: living among the cohabations^([sic]) of Faust himself, among the litharge and agate and hyacinth and pearls."
- "Go to it then hardily, and let us be agate."
- "I'm fear'd you have some ill plans agate."
Etymology
Origin
Word Breakdown
Regional Pronunciation
- American English: /əˈɡeɪt/