Meaning & Definition of word "Assay"

Assay

/əˈseɪ/

noun:

  • 1. a test of a substance to determine its quality, purity, or composition.
    • Example: The assay showed that the mineral contained a high percentage of silver.
  • 2. an examination or analysis, particularly in the context of evaluating something.
    • Example: The report included an assay of the environmental impact of the project.

verb:

  • 1. to analyze (something) for one or more of its components.
    • Example: The lab will assay the blood sample for traces of contaminants.
  • 2. to determine the quality or value of something.
    • Example: The company hired experts to assay the gold from the mine.
  • 3. to attempt or try (often used in a literary context).
    • Example: 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.

Related Words

analysis:

The process of examining something to understand it better.

evaluate:

To assess the value or quality of something.

Slang Meanings of assay

Meaning: to test something in a casual way

Example Sentence: Let's assay this recipe before serving it at the party.

Meaning: to give something a try

Example Sentence: He decided to assay his luck with a new venture.