Meaning & Definition
noun
a test of a substance to determine its quality, purity, or composition.
The assay showed that the mineral contained a high percentage of silver.
an examination or analysis, particularly in the context of evaluating something.
The report included an assay of the environmental impact of the project.
verb
to analyze (something) for one or more of its components.
The lab will assay the blood sample for traces of contaminants.
to determine the quality or value of something.
The company hired experts to assay the gold from the mine.
to attempt or try (often used in a literary context).
She decided to assay a new approach to the problem.
Etymology
Late Middle English: from Old French 'essayer' meaning 'to try', from 'essai' meaning 'attempt'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
assay report:
A document that describes the results of an assay.
assay of a substance:
An examination of a substance to determine its components or quality.
Slang Meanings
to test something in a casual way
Let's assay this recipe before serving it at the party.
to give something a try
He decided to assay his luck with a new venture.