from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Ace \Ace\ ([=a]s), n.; pl. {Aces} ([=a]"s[e^]z). [OE. as, F. as,
fr. L. as, assis, unity, copper coin, the unit of coinage.
Cf. {As}.]
[1913 Webster]
1. A unit; a single point or spot on a card or die; the card
or die so marked; as, the ace of diamonds.
[1913 Webster]
2. Hence: A very small quantity or degree; a particle; an
atom; a jot.
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I 'll not wag an ace further. --Dryden.
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3. (Sport) A single point won by a stroke, as in handball,
rackets, etc.; in tennis, frequently, a point won by a
service stroke.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
{To bate an ace}, to make the least abatement. [Obs.]
{Within an ace of}, very near; on the point of. --W. Irving.
[1913 Webster]