Approximate \Ap*prox"i*mate\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Approximated}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Approximating}.] 1. To carry or advance near; to cause to approach. [1913 Webster] To approximate the inequality of riches to the level of nature. --Burke. [1913 Webster] 2. To come near to; to approach. [1913 Webster] The telescope approximates perfection. --J. Morse. [1913 Webster]