proximity
noun
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The fact that the star closest in proximity to our sun (approximately 4.2 light-years distant) is named Proxima Centauri is no coincidence. The history of proximity hinges on the idea of closeness, both physical and metaphorical. English speakers borrowed the word from Middle French, which in turn acquired it from forms of the Latin adjective proximus, meaning "nearest" or "next." Close relatives of proximity in English include proximal, proximate, and the somewhat more rare approximal (meaning "contiguous"). A number of other languages, including Catalan, Portuguese, and Italian, have similar words that come from the Latin proximus.
Synonyms
Examples of proximity in a Sentence
Scott Wheeler, The Athletic, 15 Jan. 2025
Multiple mountain ranges that demarcate the disparate communities of Los Angeles County create picturesque settings for homes—in dangerous proximity to scrub that is prone to catching fire.
—Andrew Moseman, The Atlantic, 15 Jan. 2025
Ramona’s proximity to the Cleveland National Forest provides outdoor enthusiasts with hiking, foraging and wildlife opportunities, further enhancing the town’s appeal to nature lovers.
—Meghan Bernd, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Jan. 2025
Due to its proximity to our star, it is expected to glow brightly over the coming nights, nearly outshining the planet Venus in our skies.
—John Mac Ghlionn, Newsweek, 14 Jan. 2025
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Dictionary Entries Near proximity
Cite this Entry
“Proximity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proximity. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.
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proximity
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proximity
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