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

To maximize the potential of the new approach, the researchers emphasize the importance of personalized medicine.

From Science Daily

This selective emission, achieved through insights from quantum physics, maximizes energy conversion and allows for higher efficiencies than previously possible, operating at the limit of the materials' properties.

From Science Daily

The researchers also have to show that, at the temperatures closer to absolute zero that maximize sensitivity, the gears in the tuning mechanism won’t create more heat than the cooling system can handle, Chou says.

From Science Magazine

They should maximize their efforts to bring back four of them.

From Los Angeles Times

Unlike previously reported porous organic crystals, the Janus crystals combine water-collection and water-delivery functions at their surface, creating a highly efficient water harvesting process that maximizes the amount of collected water at ambient conditions.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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