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approximation

noun ap·prox·i·ma·tion \ ə-ˌpräk-sə-ˈmā-shən \
|Updated on: 7 Jun 2018

Definition of approximation

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
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approximative

play \-ˈpräk-sə-ˌmā-tiv\ adjective

See approximation defined for English-language learners

See approximation defined for kids

Examples of approximation in a Sentence

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

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

Recent Examples of approximation from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'approximation.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of approximation

15th century

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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APPROXIMATION Defined for English Language Learners

approximation

noun

Definition of approximation for English Language Learners

  • : an amount, figure, etc., that is almost correct and is not intended to be exact : an approximate amount, figure, etc.

  • : something that is similar to something else

APPROXIMATION Defined for Kids

approximation

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

Definition of approximation for Students

1 : an estimate or figure that is not intended to be exact
2 : an act or the result of coming near or close The color isn't exactly the same, but it's a close approximation.

Learn More about approximation

  1. See words that rhyme with approximation Spanish Central: Translation of approximation Nglish: Translation of approximation for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about approximation

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