extrapolation

[ ik-strap-uh-ley-shuhn ]

noun

1. an act or instance of inferring an unknown from something that is known.
2. Statistics, Mathematics. the act or process of estimating the value of a variable or function outside the tabulated or observed range.

extrapolation

1. A mathematical procedure designed to enable one to estimate unknown values of a parameter from known values. A common method of extrapolation is to look at data on a curve, then extend the curve into regions for which there is no data. Extrapolation is often used to predict the future.

Word History and Origins

Origin of extrapolation¹

First recorded in 1870–75; extrapolat(e) + -(t)ion

Example Sentences

You claim that you actually guessed where that ship was going to be, but you followed the computer's extrapolation instead?

From Project Gutenberg

The last three values are those obtained by extrapolation with platinum-rhodium and platinum-iridium couples.

From Project Gutenberg

In controversion of this it must be said that the ulterior justification of such ideal extrapolation is not yet feasible.

From Project Gutenberg

Even the most favorable extrapolation showed it would take him nineteen years to become master of the world.

From Project Gutenberg

I thought my subconscious was just building up this stuff to fill the gaps in what I'd produced from logical extrapolation.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• calculation
• estimate
• estimation
• forecast