proximity
noun
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The fact that the star closest in proximity to our sun (approximately 4.2 light-years distant) is named Proxima Centauri is no coincidence. The history of proximity hinges on the idea of closeness, both physical and metaphorical. English speakers borrowed the word from Middle French, which in turn acquired it from forms of the Latin adjective proximus, meaning "nearest" or "next." Close relatives of proximity in English include proximal, proximate, and the somewhat more rare approximal (meaning "contiguous"). A number of other languages, including Catalan, Portuguese, and Italian, have similar words that come from the Latin proximus.
Examples of proximity in a Sentence
Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025
Despite the proximity, the estranged brothers did not see each other.
—Max Foster, CNN Money, 10 Sep. 2025
But in an era in which proximity to a city center heightens exchange value, gentrifiers simply have a better leg to stand on.
—Literary Hub, 9 Sep. 2025
Popular among outdoor enthusiasts for hiking and its proximity to Yellowstone National Park, the city boasts new hotel and lodging options perfect for any traveler.
—Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 9 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for proximity
Cite this Entry
“Proximity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proximity. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.
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