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

Over time, those sequences result in approximation errors that are compounded by the proliferation of patterns that may be statisticallyanalyzed but elude prediction. —Patrick R. Crowley, Artforum, 1 Mar. 2026

Holder had to devise a close approximation, balancing authenticity of color and style with the functionality needed today. —Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 27 Feb. 2026

But the process of training AI on beloved musicians of the past and present to produce synthetic approximations of their work has angered the music industry and brought much of its legal power against the two startups. —ABC News, 25 Feb. 2026

There’s a lovely little formula called the small-angle approximation that relates the two. —Phil Plait, Scientific American, 20 Feb. 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