Prox·i·mate a. Nearest; next immediately preceding or following. “Proximate ancestors.”
The proximate natural causes of it [the deluge]. --T. Burnet.
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.
Syn: -- Nearest; next; closest; immediate; direct.
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