approximation

noun

ap·​prox·​i·​ma·​tion ə-ˌpräk-sə-ˈmā-shən 

1

: the act or process of drawing together

2

: the quality or state of being close or near

an approximation to the truth

an approximation of justice

3

: something that is approximate

especially : a mathematical quantity that is close in value to but not the same as a desired quantity

approximative

ə-ˈpräk-sə-ˌmā-tiv 

adjective

Examples of approximation in a Sentence

This isn't an exact figure but I think it's a good approximation of what the land is worth.

The color of the paint isn't the exact same color as the vase, but it's a close approximation.

Recent Examples on the Web

This season, Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D’Arcy), the show’s closest approximation of a hero, finally claims the Iron Throne, many years after having been named heir to it, controversially, by her father, King Viserys I (Paddy Considine), in Season 1. — Sarah Larson, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026

The score is an approximation rather than a medical reading, and one bad night is not a problem. — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 31 July 2026

What sleep data can actually tell you That score is an approximation, not a medical reading. — Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 July 2026

Some of the fatality figures Trump cited appear to be approximations and don't precisely match Defense Department records. — Mary Bruce, ABC News, 22 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for approximation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

approximation

noun

ap·​prox·​i·​ma·​tion ə-ˌpräk-sə-ˈmā-shən 

1

: a coming near or close (as in value)

2

: something approximate

especially : an estimate or figure that is almost exact