AGATE

Agate

Agate is a microcrystalline variety of silica, chiefly chalcedony, characterised by its fineness of grain and brightness of color. Although agates may be found in various kinds of rock, they are classically associated with volcanic rocks and can be common in certain metamorphic rocks.

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agate

Noun

  1. 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. 5.5-point size of type, larger than pearl and smaller than nonpareil; in England called ruby.
  3. A diminutive person; so called in allusion to the small figures cut in agate for rings and seals.
  4. A tool used by gold-wire drawers, bookbinders, etc.;—so called from the agate fixed in it for burnishing.

Adverb

  1. On the way; agoing.
    to be agate; to set the bells agate


The above text is a snippet from Wiktionary: agate
and as such is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.

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