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

Later stone sleepers left in situ in several sections give a good approximation of what the original route might have looked like in this still rural landscape. —Carlton Reid, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025

The first one is the actual linear algebra part, like a matrix approximation problem. —Steven Strogatz, Quanta Magazine, 3 Apr. 2025

The sports simulation, developed by Engine Room VR, aims for a 1:1 approximation of boxing. —Griff Griffin, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 June 2025

Such simulations can be time-consuming to run, even on state-of-the-art supercomputers—hence the search for accurate approximations. —Ramin Skibba, Scientific American, 13 May 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