proximate

[ prok-suh-mit ]

adjective

1. next; nearest; immediately before or after in order, place, occurrence, etc.
2. close; very near.
3. approximate; fairly accurate.
4. forthcoming; imminent.

proximate

/ ˈprɒksɪmɪt /

adjective

1. next or nearest in space or time
2. very near; close
3. immediately preceding or following in a series
4. a less common word for approximate

Derived Forms

• ˈproximately, adverb
• ˌproxiˈmation, noun
• ˈproximateness, noun

Other Word Forms

• proxi·mate·ly adverb
• proxi·mate·ness noun
• prox·i·ma·tion [prok-s, uh, -, mey, -sh, uh, n], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of proximate¹

1590–1600; < Late Latin proximātus, past participle of proximāre to near, approach. See proximal, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of proximate¹

C16: from Late Latin proximāre to draw near, from Latin proximus next, from prope near

Example Sentences

Nevertheless, some of his more proximate misdeeds are effectively used to make clear that Mantel's antihero is, in the denouement of his life, fully alert to his sinful state.

From Salon

The damage “was proximately and substantially caused by the actions of Defendants ... and each of them ... caused Plaintiffs’ damages,” the complaint said.

From Los Angeles Times

The proximate cause of the breakup was the granting of a preliminary injunction against the deal by U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

A lot of research, and especially mainstream media, conflate the proximate cause of something with the underlying cause of it.

From Salon

It's understandable that people are focused on the proximate threat of Donald Trump, but the Trump administration, as you just said, was a clown show.

From Salon

Quiz

Q: Because of their eager and enthusiastic nature, Aries are often described as …

• rhapsodic.
• tenacious.
• adaptable.

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