Langimage
English

extrapolation

|ex-trap-o-la-tion|

C1

/ɪkˌstræpəˈleɪʃən/

Estimating beyond known data

Etymology
Etymology Information

'extrapolation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'extra,' meaning 'outside,' and 'polare,' meaning 'to smooth or polish.'

Historical Evolution

'extrapolation' changed from the Latin word 'extrapolare' and eventually became the modern English word 'extrapolation.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to smooth or polish outside,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'estimating beyond known data.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the act of estimating or concluding something by assuming that existing trends will continue or a current method will remain applicable.

The scientist made an extrapolation of the data to predict future climate changes.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/15 02:17