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
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
At times, these experiments feel like a close, loving approximation of the genuine article.
—
Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 14 May 2024
While still advertised explicitly as digital approximations, some of the products offered by companies like Replika, HereAfter, and Persona can be (and in some cases already are) used to simulate the dead.
—Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 9 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for approximation 
Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 14 May 2024
While still advertised explicitly as digital approximations, some of the products offered by companies like Replika, HereAfter, and Persona can be (and in some cases already are) used to simulate the dead.
—Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 9 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for approximation
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'approximation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near approximation
Cite this Entry
“Approximation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/approximation. Accessed 29 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids 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
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