The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

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]