Assay

as-sā′, v.t. to determine the proportions of a metal in an ore or alloy: endeavour (more usually E ay ): ( Spens. ) to affect or move: ( Shak. ) to put one to the proof, as to accost with a particular purpose, to measure swords with another, .: ( poet. ) put to proof, examine by trial.— v.i. to attempt.— n. the determination of the quantity of metal in an ore or alloy: the trial of anything, as in the ancient custom of tasting the drink before handing it to a king or noble: an attempt or endeavour: probation or trial: ( Spens. ) ascertained purity.— ns. A ay′er , one who a ays, esp. metals; A ay′ing , the proce of a aying or determining the proportion of pure metal in an ore or alloy; A ay′-mas′ter , the officer who determines the amount of gold or silver in coin or bullion. [O. Fr. a ayer , n. a ai . See E ay .]