a. [ L. approximatus, p. p. of approximare to approach; ad + proximare to come near. See Proximate. ]
Approximate quantities (Math.),
v. t.
To approximate the inequality of riches to the level of nature. Burke. [ 1913 Webster ]
The telescope approximates perfection. J. Morse. [ 1913 Webster ]
v. i. To draw; to approach. [ 1913 Webster ]
adv. With approximation; so as to approximate; nearly. [ 1913 Webster ]
a. [ L. proximatus, p. p. of proximare to come near, to approach, fr. proximus the nearest, nest, superl. of propior nearer, and prope, adv., near. ] Nearest; next immediately preceding or following. “Proximate ancestors.” J. S. Harford. [ 1913 Webster ]
The proximate natural causes of it [ the deluge ]. T. Burnet. [ 1913 Webster ]
Proximate analysis (Chem.),
Proximate cause.
Proximate principle (Physiol. Chem.),
adv. In a proximate manner, position, or degree; immediately. [ 1913 Webster ]