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.
Examples of proximity in a Sentence
Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 26 July 2025
That proximity to real-world problems makes their ideas feel timely, relevant, and grounded in action.
—Rhea Wessel, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
Affordable homes, a slower pace, and proximity to outdoor recreation are drawing folks seeking more balance in everyday living.
—Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 25 July 2025
Missouri Republican lawmakers, including U.S. Sen. Eric Schmitt and Rep. Mark Alford, quickly celebrated Thursday’s announcement, touting Kansas City’s central location and proximity to farmers.
—Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 25 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for proximity
Cite this Entry
“Proximity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proximity. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.
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