proximate
/ˈpɹɑk.sə.mət/
Word Rarity
Rare
Frequency: Zipf frequency 2.62 in modern English
20
Scrabble Score
9
Letters
3
Syllables
9
Unique Chars
Meaning
adj
Immediately preceding or following in a chain of causation.
adj
About to take place; impending.
noun
A grammatical marker that distinguishes a relatively salient referent in a given context from a relatively non-salient (obviative) one.
Example Sentences
- "And writing a Theory of the Deluge here, as we do, we were to exhibit a Series of causes whereby it might be made intelligible, or to shew^([sic]) the proximate Natural Causes of it; […]"
- "[…] the basis of a reformed constitution was laid, by the appointment of a grand council, consisting of all such citizens as could prove that their proximate ancestors had shared in the offices or honours of the state."
- "The proposed changes recognize that adequate off-street parking is an important, and often challenging, issue in many residential neighborhoods, and attempt to balance the need for off-street parking with appropriate limitations, especially in areas visible from the street or proximate to neighboring properties."
- "The proximate cause of the damage must be established."
Etymology
From Late Latin proximatus, past participle of proximare (“to draw near, approach”), from Latin proximus (“nearest”), superlative of prope (“near”).
Regional Pronunciation
- American English: /ˈpɹɑk.sə.mət/
- British English: /ˈpɹɒk.sɪ.mət/