An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

A situation in which two heavenly bodies apparently approach
each other. A close → conjunction in which no → occultation actually occurs.

Etymology (EN): L. appulsus, from appellere, appulsum “to drive to,” from
ad, → ad- + pellere “to drive”.

Etymology (PE): Hamtâxt from ham- “against; together” + tâxt, from tâxtan “to rush upon, run, assault”.