APPROXIMATION

approximation, bringing close together

(noun) the act of bringing near or bringing together especially the cut edges of tissue

approximation

(noun) the quality of coming near to identity (especially close in quantity)

estimate, estimation, approximation, idea

(noun) an approximate calculation of quantity or degree or worth; “an estimate of what it would cost”; “a rough idea how long it would take”

approximation

(noun) an imprecise or incomplete account; “newspapers gave only an approximation of the actual events”

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Noun

approximation (countable and uncountable, plural approximations)

The act, process or result of approximating.

(mathematics) An imprecise solution or result that is adequate for a defined purpose.

(medicine) The act of bringing together the edges of tissue to be sutured.

Source: Wiktionary

Ap*prox`i*ma"tion. n. Etym: [Cf. F. approximation, LL. approximatio.]

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.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition