approximation Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun an approximate calculation of quantity or degree or worth
    estimate; estimation; idea.
    • an estimate of what it would cost
    • a rough idea how long it would take
  2. noun the quality of coming near to identity (especially close in quantity)
  3. noun an imprecise or incomplete account
    • newspapers gave only an approximation of the actual events
  4. noun the act of bringing near or bringing together especially the cut edges of tissue
    bringing close together.

WordNet

Ap*prox`i*ma"tion noun
Etymology
Cf. F. approximation, LL. approximatio.
Definitions
  1. The act of approximating; a drawing, advancing or being near; approach; also, the result of approximating.
    The largest capacity and the most noble dispositions are but an approximation to the proper standard and true symmetry of human nature. I. Taylor.
  2. An approach to a correct estimate, calculation, or conception, or to a given quantity, quality, etc.
  3. (Math.) (a) A continual approach or coming nearer to a result; as, to solve an equation by approximation. (b) A value that is nearly but not exactly correct.

Webster 1913