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

Most special cases do not require an exact Kolmogorov complexity—an approximation will suffice. —Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 19 Sep. 2024

Somewhere in the neural network's weights, there is an approximation of my dad's writing habits. —Benj Edwards, Ars Technica, 12 Sep. 2024

That’s because the six-shooter is a good approximation for a generic abstraction of a handgun. —Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 11 Sep. 2024

Absorbency: To test the absorbency of the diapers, testers measured out six ounces of saline, which is a rough approximation of how much an infant pees in one sitting. —Jessica Booth, Parents, 6 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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