approximation
UK: əˌprɒksɪˈmeɪʃən | US: əˌprɑːksɪˈmeɪʃən
n. 1. A value or quantity that is nearly but not exactly correct.
n. 2. The process of estimating or coming close to a desired outcome.
n. 3. (Mathematics) A method of representing a complex value with a simpler, more manageable form.
approximation = ap<toward> + proxim<near> + ation<noun suffix>
- ap (variant of "ad," meaning "toward" in Latin)
- proxim (from Latin "proximus," meaning "nearest" or "close")
- ation (noun-forming suffix indicating an action or result)
Etymology Origin:
The word "approximation" traces back to Latin approximare ("to come near"), combining ad- (toward) and proximus (nearest). It entered English via Medieval Latin approximatio, reflecting the idea of moving closer to an exact value or truth. The suffix -ation formalizes it as a noun, emphasizing the process or result of estimation.
The scientist used linear approximation to simplify the complex equation.
His answer was a rough approximation of the actual figure.
In engineering, approximations are often necessary for practical calculations.
The map provides an approximation of the terrain but lacks fine details.
Her painting is an artistic approximation of the sunset, not a precise replica.