optimum

op·ti·mum

noun \ˈäp-tə-məm\

plural op·ti·ma\-mə\ also op·ti·mums

Definition of OPTIMUM

1

: the amount or degree of something that is most favorable to some end; especially : the most favorable condition for the growth and reproduction of an organism

2

: greatest degree attained or attainable under implied or specified conditions

— optimum adjective

Examples of OPTIMUM

1. The substances were mixed in various proportions until an optimum was reached.

Origin of OPTIMUM

Latin

First Known Use: 1879

Other Biology Terms

autochthonous, fecund, homunculus, phylogeny, substrate