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.