AGATE (2)

Ag″ate (�), n. [[F. agate, It. agata, L. achates, fr. Gr. �.]] 1. 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. 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. 3. A diminutive person; so called in allusion to the small figures cut in agate for rings and seals. Shak.
4. 4. A tool used by gold-wire drawers, bookbinders, etc.; — so called from the agate fixed in it for burnishing.