[ ə'seɪ , 'aseɪ ]
■ noun
1》 the testing of a metal or ore to determine its ingredients and quality.
2》 a procedure for measuring the biochemical or immunological activity of a sample.
■ verb
1》 carry out an ~ on.
2》 archaic attempt.
Derivatives
~er noun
Origin
ME: from OFr. assai (n.), assaier (v.), var. of essai 'trial', essayer (see essay ).