Langimage
English

approximate

|ap-prox-i-mate|

B2

🇺🇸

/əˈprɑːksɪmət/

🇬🇧

/əˈprɒksɪmət/

roughly

Etymology
Etymology Information

'approximate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'approximatus,' where 'ad-' meant 'to' and 'proximus' meant 'nearest.'

Historical Evolution

'approximatus' transformed into the French word 'approximatif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'approximate' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to bring near,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'close to the actual.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to come close to or be similar to something in quality, nature, or quantity.

The painting approximates the style of the Renaissance.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

close to the actual, but not completely accurate or exact.

The approximate cost of the project is $500.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39