maximize

[ mak-suh-mahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, max·i·mized, max·i·miz·ing.

1. to increase to the greatest possible amount or degree:

   to look for ways of maximizing profit.

2. to represent at the highest possible estimate; magnify:

   He maximized his importance in the program, minimizing the contributions of the other participants.

3. to make the greatest or fullest use of:

   Maximize your time by planning ahead.

maximize

/ ˈmæksɪˌmaɪz /

verb

1. tr to make as high or great as possible; increase to a maximum
2. maths to find the maximum of (a function)

Derived Forms

• ˌmaximiˈzation, noun
• ˈmaxiˌmizer, noun

Other Words From

• maxi·mi·zation maxi·mation noun
• maxi·mizer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of maximize¹

First recorded in 1795–1805; maxim(um) + -ize

Example Sentences

“He has really great movement intelligence so he can figure out how to maximize what he has as an athlete.”

From Los Angeles Times

Allowing social media platforms to publish disinformation, often anonymously, promotes dishonesty and maximizes profits for those platforms at the expense of the audience they exploit.

From Salon

Advocacy organizations are also coordinating to maximize their reach.

From Los Angeles Times

"Promoters of the market system argue that individualized decision-making about the economy maximizes freedom."

From Salon

Last year, TikTok put out a press release instructing users how to maximize their Halloween experience on the app.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• augment
• bloat
• boost
• enlarge
• escalate
• exaggerate
• expand
• magnify
• overestimate
• pad
• widen