Asymptote
(spelling according to my Merriam Webster Collegiate Dictionary, but I've seen it without the "p", as well)

I've had a fondness for this word for many years, not because of its mathematical application but because of its potential applicability outside that field. I've never used the word in other than a physical science context nor have I seen it used otherwise by anyone else. But it seems to me that the idea of describing a social or political situation as "asymptotic" is quite descriptive and worthy of something George Will might write.
One might say, "His approach to acknowledging error is asymptotic" (meaning, he comes close, but never quite gets there). Or, "The administration's asymptotic treatment of the homeless problem leaves much to be desired."
I'd be interested to hear your views on the subject--particularly if you've ever run across the word outside the realm of mathematics or physics.