approximately

adverb

ap·​prox·​i·​mate·​ly ə-ˈpräk-sə-mət-lē How to pronounce approximately (audio)
Synonyms of approximatelynext
: in an approximate manner
an event in ancient history that can only be approximately dated
used to indicate that a stated number, amount, or value is an approximation
Approximately [=around, about] 2,000 people attended the rally.
arrived at approximately 11:30 in the morning
During a lifetime, a person will take approximately 500 million breaths.Arthur S. Slutsky, M.D., et al.

Examples of approximately in a Sentence

it takes approximately three hours to drive to Dallas
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sunrise and sunset will be approximately one hour earlier the following morning than the day before, resulting in more morning light. Jordan Green, Memphis Commercial Appeal, 8 Feb. 2026 The Plainview Fire grew to approximately 130 acres, officials said. Christa Swanson, CBS News, 8 Feb. 2026 According to Reuters, at Davos, Julie Teigland, EY’s global vice chair, indicated that approximately 81 hours of training per employee could equate to about 14% weekly productivity gains if it’s coupled with redesigning of roles. Vicki Salemi, Boston Herald, 8 Feb. 2026 And a full stadium will have an impact, approximately doubling the city’s population on a game day. Edward Keegan, Chicago Tribune, 8 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for approximately

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of approximately was in 1742

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Approximately.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/approximately. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

approximately

adverb
ap·​prox·​i·​mate·​ly
-mət-lē
: reasonably close to
approximately 5 miles
at approximately six o'clock

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