A*gate" (#), adv. [Pref. a- on + gate way.]
On the way; agoing; as, to be agate; to set the bells agate.
[Obs.]
Cotgrave.
© Webster 1913.
Ag"ate (#), n. [F. agate, It. agata, L. achates, fr. Gr. .]
1. Min.
A semipellucid, uncrystallized variety of quartz, presenting various tints in the same specimen. Its colors are delicately arranged in stripes or bands, or blended in clouds.
⇒ The fortification agate, or Scotch pebble, the moss agate, the clouded agate, etc., are familiar varieties.
2. Print.
A kind of type, larger than pearl and smaller than nonpareil; in England called ruby.
⇒ This line is printed in the type called agate.
3.
A diminutive person; so called in allusion to the small figures cut in agate for rings and seals.
[Obs.]
Shak.
4.
A tool used by gold-wire drawers, bookbinders, etc.; -- so called from the agate fixed in it for burnishing.
© Webster 1913.