Ace (�), n.; pl.Aces (�). [OE. as, F. as, fr. L. as, assis, unity, copper coin, the unit of coinage. Cf. As.]
1. A unit; a single point or spot on a card or die; the card or die so marked; as, the ace of diamonds.
2. Hence: A very small quantity or degree; a particle; an atom; a jot.
I 'll not wag an ace further.
Dryden.
To bate an ace, to make the least abatement. — Within an ace of, very near; on the point of. W. Irving.