maximum

noun

max·​i·​mum ˈmak-s(ə-)məm 

plural maxima ˈmak-sə-mə  or maximums ˈmak-s(ə-)məmz 

1

a

: the greatest quantity or value attainable or attained

b

: the period of highest, greatest, or utmost development

2

: an upper limit allowed (as by a legal authority) or allowable (as by the circumstances of a particular case)

3

: the largest of a set of numbers

specifically : the largest value assumed by a real-valued continuous function defined on a closed interval

maximum adjective

Synonyms of maximum

• max
• most
• utmost

Examples of maximum in a Sentence

achieved the maximum

Recent Examples on the Web

Anyone found to be in violation could face a maximum of six months in jail and up to $1,000 in fines. —Julia Bonavita, FOXNews.com, 22 May 2026

The new Tokyo market program will feature international projects in advanced financing that are seeking a maximum of 40% gap financing. —Jennie Punter, Variety, 22 May 2026

Professional students, meanwhile, will be able to borrow a maximum of $50,000 annually or $200,000 in total. —Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 20 May 2026

The yacht is chartered in its entirety, so a maximum of 14 guests have a vast deck equipped with sunloungers, an expansive indoor saloon and bar, and a spa area all to themselves. —Rebecca Ann Hughes, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, neuter of maximus biggest — more at maxim

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing maximum

• maximum likelihood
• maximum occupancy
• maximum security prison

Kids Definition

maximum

noun

max·​i·​mum ˈmak-s(ə-)məm 

plural maxima -sə-mə  or maximums

1

: the highest quantity, value, or development

2

: an upper limit allowed

maximum adjective

Medical Definition

maximum

noun

max·​i·​mum ˈmak-s(ə-)məm 

plural maxima -sə-mə  or maximums

1

a

: the greatest quantity or value attainable or attained

b

: the period of highest, greatest, or utmost development

2

: an upper limit allowed (as by a legal authority) or allowable (as by the circumstances of a particular case)

maximum adjective