As a Noun: 1. A statement of the number, time or position of something which is a reasoned guess based on evidence when the exact answer is not known. English = estimate. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To be close to the correct number of something, but not to be exact. English = (be) around, (be) about, (be) approximate. 2. To say or give a number, time, or position for something which is only a reasoned guess based on evidence because the exact answer is not known. English = estimate. As Modifier: 1. Used to modify a number sign to mean the exact number is not known. English = approximately.