approximation

noun

ap·​prox·​i·​ma·​tion ə-ˌpräk-sə-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce approximation (audio)
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 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 Thus, the real challenge for marketers is discerning the truth in a sea of approximations. Anton Lipkanou, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2024 There was the discovery of the Fibonacci sequence, encoded in the set — as well as an approximation of π. Quanta Magazine, 26 Jan. 2024 Historically, the Academy has been more impressed by the approximation of a thing than the thing itself. Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 23 Jan. 2024 This alternating of hot and cold is an ancient remedy for keeping well, and mixing these tracks is like an aural approximation of winter bathing courtesy of Thelonious Monk. Tim Moffatt, EW.com, 17 Nov. 2023 But these are approximations based on a full flying schedule, Trautman noted. Vinod Sreeharsha, Miami Herald, 15 Feb. 2024 Unemployment remains below 4 percent, which used to be considered an approximation for full employment. The Editors, National Review, 14 Feb. 2024 To a first approximation, the federal government is a system that collects taxes from working-age adults and spends much of the proceeds on programs that help seniors, such as Medicare and Social Security. Paul Krugman, The Mercury News, 8 Feb. 2024 Thirteen months and $14 million in investments later, it has been restored to a close approximation of its original condition. Jonathan Pitts, Baltimore Sun, 5 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'approximation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of approximation was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near approximation

Cite this Entry

“Approximation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/approximation. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

approximation

noun
ap·​prox·​i·​ma·​tion ə-ˌpräk-sə-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce approximation (audio)
1
: a coming near or close (as in value)
2
: something approximate
especially : an estimate or figure that is almost exact
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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