maximal

adjective

max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl 

1

: being an upper limit : highest

2

: most comprehensive : complete

maximally adverb

Examples of maximal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When armed federal agents roll into residential neighborhoods under vague authority and maximal posture, the odds of catastrophe rise fast. —Phil Morris The Minnesota Star Tribune, Arkansas Online, 10 Jan. 2026

The Shirtdress Minimal in detail but maximal in effect, this spring’s best shirtdresses were all about effortless elegance. —Rosie Jarman, Vogue, 3 Jan. 2026

These high-tech chambers lessen the oxygen in the air, enclose you in freezing temperatures, or vibrate your body—all in the alluring name of maximal training and recovery. —Chelsey Stone, Outside, 26 Dec. 2025

In the beginning of Big Fiction, there were encyclopedic novels and mega-novels and then maximal novels. —Literary Hub, 18 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing maximal

• sub-maximal

Rhymes for maximal

• submaximal

Kids Definition

maximal

adjective

max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl 

1

: being an upper limit : highest

maximal growth

2

: most comprehensive : complete

maximal recovery

Medical Definition

maximal

adjective

max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl 

1

: most complete or effective

maximal dental protection

maximal vasodilation

2

: being an upper limit

the maximal levels achieved with subcutaneous injections

—W. S. Hoffman

maximally

-ē 

adverb