: almost correct or exact
This is the approximate location of the ancient city.
her approximate age
: close in value or amount but not precise
Can you give me the approximate cost of the repair?
approximates; approximated; approximating
1
a
: to be very similar to but not exactly like (something)
I've finally found a vegetarian burger that approximates the taste of real beef.
The colors in the pictures can only approximate the real thing.
(chiefly Brit)
—+ toThe colors in the pictures can only approximate to the real thing.
b
: to do or make a thing that is very similar to but not exactly like (something)
an Australian who can approximate a strong New York City accent
2
: to calculate the almost exact value or position of (something)
Students learned to approximate [=estimate] the distance between the Earth and the planets.
Cite this Entry
“Approximate.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/approximate. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
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