\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.
      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.