Proximate principle
(gcide) | Proximate \Prox"i*mate\, a. [L. proximatus, p. p. of proximare
to come near, to approach, fr. proximus the nearest, nest,
superl. of propior nearer, and prope, adv., near.]
Nearest; next immediately preceding or following. "Proximate
ancestors." --J. S. Harford.
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The proximate natural causes of it [the deluge]. --T.
Burnet.
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Proximate analysis (Chem.), an analysis which determines
the proximate principles of any substance, as contrasted
with an ultimate analysis.
Proximate cause.
(a) A cause which immediately precedes and produces the
effect, as distinguished from the remote, mediate, or
predisposing cause. --I. Watts.
(b) That which in ordinary natural sequence produces a
specific result, no independent disturbing agencies
intervening.
Proximate principle (Physiol. Chem.), one of a class of
bodies existing ready formed in animal and vegetable
tissues, and separable by chemical analysis, as albumin,
sugar, collagen, fat, etc.
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Syn: Nearest; next; closest; immediate; direct.
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