minimax

noun

mini·​max ˈmi-ni-ˌmaks How to pronounce minimax (audio)
: the minimum of a set of maxima
especially : the smallest of a set of maximum possible losses each of which occurs in the most unfavorable outcome of a strategy followed by a participant in a situation governed by game theory compare maximin

Word History

Etymology

minimum + maximum

First Known Use

1917, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of minimax was in 1917

Dictionary Entries Near minimax

Cite this Entry

“Minimax.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimax. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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