Origin: Latin suffix -tion
Approximation has 5 different meanings across 1 category:
an approximate calculation of quantity or degree or worth
"an estimate of what it would cost"
"a rough idea how long it would take"
the quality of coming near to identity (especially close in quantity)
"The scientist's rough approximation of the star's mass was within a few percent of the actual value."
an imprecise or incomplete account
"newspapers gave only an approximation of the actual events"
the act of bringing near or bringing together especially the cut edges of tissue
"The surgeon's careful approximation of the torn skin ensured that the wound would heal without visible scarring."
The act, process or result of approximating.
"The engineer's approximation of the bridge's load-bearing capacity was within a safe margin of error."
In plain English: An approximation is an estimate that is close to the correct answer but not exactly right.
"The engineer used an approximation for the value to complete his calculations quickly."
Usage: Use this noun to describe an estimate that is close enough for the intended purpose but not exact. It often refers to simplified mathematical values or rough guesses in everyday conversation rather than precise measurements.
The word approximation comes from combining the verb approximate with the suffix -ion to form a noun. It entered English as a way to describe an action or result of making something nearly equal or close enough for practical purposes.