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

Using approximation theory, the researchers showed that completeness cannot surpass doubly exponential closeness to one, and soundness cannot drop below exponentially small. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 29 Sep. 2025

The team tweaked the LLMs to ensure compatibility with FHE, such as replacing some complex mathematical functions with their approximations for more efficient computation. —IEEE Spectrum, 23 Sep. 2025

Assumptions and approximations abound. —Sylvan Lane, The Hill, 22 Sep. 2025

But even with this approximation, classical computer simulations hit a wall. —Shalma Wegsman, Quanta Magazine, 5 Sep. 2025

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