Assay
WordNet
noun
(1) A quantitative or qualitative test of a substance (especially an ore or a drug) to determine its components; frequently used to test for the presence or concentration of infectious agents or antibodies etc.
(2) An appraisal of the state of affairs
"They made an assay of the contents"
"A check on its dependability under stress"
(3) A written report of the results of an analysis of the composition of some substance
(4) A substance that is undergoing an analysis of its components
verb
(5) Analyze (chemical substances)
(6) Make an effort or attempt
"He tried to shake off his fears"
"The infant had essayed a few wobbly steps"
"The police attempted to stop the thief"
"He sought to improve himself"
"She always seeks to do good in the world"
WiktionaryText
Etymology
From assaier, from assai, from essai.
Noun
assay
- trial, attempt, essay.
- the qualitative or quantitative chemical analysis of something
Verb
- To analyze or estimate the composition or value of (a metal, ore etc.).
- To test the abilities of (someone) in combat; to fight.
- 1485, Sir Thomas Malory, Le Morte Darthur, Book IV:
- Nay said sir Gawayne not so, it were shame to vs were he not assayed were he neuer soo good a knyghte [...].
- 1485, Sir Thomas Malory, Le Morte Darthur, Book IV:
- To attempt, to try.