optimal

[ op-tuh-muhl ]

adjective

1. optimum ( def 3 ).

optimal

/ ˈɒptɪməl /

adjective

1. See optimum
   another word for optimum

Derived Forms

• ˈoptimally, adverb
• ˌoptiˈmality, noun

Other Words From

• op·ti·mal·ly adverb
• su·per·op·ti·mal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of optimal¹

First recorded in 1885–90; optim(um) + -al ¹

Example Sentences

There is no one chair that fits all—so find one that gives you the ability to make the tweaks you’ll need for optimal comfort.

From Popular-Science

It also features an automatic shut-off after two hours for optimal safety.

From Popular-Science

We feel strongly that we will go by the science, which dictated for us the optimal way to get 94% to 95% response.

From Time

The key is to remember that the minimum dose for health and the optimal dose for performance are two separate questions.

From Outside Online

In this interview, he explains the optimal ways to ensure maximum airflow inside a car.

From Washington Post

If one really wants to go for optimal health the answer is the more the better.

From The Daily Beast

The choice of Kline was widely mocked by the punditocracy as less than optimal.

From The Daily Beast

The optimal intervals will ultimately depend on your schedule.

From The Daily Beast

And the long-term trend of growth—unsatisfying, sub-par, sub-optimal, and insufficient growth—is still intact.

From The Daily Beast

A precautionary move aimed at perfecting how much more the Banzi will need to take in order to reach an optimal high.

From The Daily Beast

The Brain also has an optimal operation speed, a definite rhythm in which it works best.

From Project Gutenberg

Several wide tables have been optimised for wide (browser) windows and may not look optimal in narrow windows or other formats.

From Project Gutenberg

Here most of the species recorded actually find optimal conditions in an adjacent habitat.

From Project Gutenberg

They have no idea what should the appropriate or optimal equilibrium price level be.

From Project Gutenberg

Alan went back to the map, realigning the laptop for optimal reception again.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• excellent