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

There is no game code here, no real rules; just an approximation of what should happen next, a machine’s memory of Minecraft. —Dani Di Placido, Forbes, 3 Nov. 2024

However, its numbers have proven accurate in previous conflicts and provide at least a rough approximation of the total death count. —Zack Beauchamp, Vox, 4 Oct. 2024

Before any ride, cyclists can enter their weight, cadence, average speed, mileage, terrain, wind speed, and other factors to find out a near-exact approximation of how long their Bosch battery will last. —Stephanie Pearson, WIRED, 8 Sep. 2024

Tesla vehicle deliveries — a close approximation of sales — totaled 443,956 in the second quarter, down 5% compared with a year earlier. —Nathan Bomey, Axios, 23 July 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