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. [ 1913 Webster ]
The proximate natural causes of it [ the deluge ]. T. Burnet. [ 1913 Webster ]
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. [ 1913 Webster ]
Syn. -- Nearest; next; closest; immediate; direct. [ 1913 Webster ]