optimization

noun

op·​ti·​mi·​za·​tion ˌäp-tə-mə-ˈzā-shən 

: an act, process, or methodology of making something (such as a design, system, or decision) as fully perfect, functional, or effective as possible

specifically : the mathematical procedures (such as finding the maximum of a function) involved in this

Did you know?

Optimization started its gradual perfection in mid-19th-century English, when it was derived from optimize, a word first used in the early part of that same century with the meaning "to make the best or most of." In basic applications, optimization refers to the act or process of making something as good as it can be. In the 21st century, it has seen much use in technical contexts having to do with attaining the best possible functionality, as in "network optimization" and "search engine optimization" (SEO). Like the words optimum and optimism (which refer, respectively, to the amount or degree of something that is best or most effective, and to a feeling or belief that good things will happen in the future), optimize and optimization derive from Latin optimus, meaning "best."

Examples of optimization in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Frame-by-frame optimization also works away improving detail and skin tone with help from AI smarts. — New Atlas, 23 Sep. 2026

The company says its broader platform can turn individual weapons into networked sensors, with applications including training optimization, situational awareness, predictive logistics and predictive maintenance. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 23 Sep. 2026

Operationalizing an intelligence grid could bring you one step closer to actualizing predictive marketing, where marketers drive personalization and optimization to improve customer experiences and economic ROI. — Thomas Zawacki, Forbes.com, 23 Sep. 2026

Tompkins Solutions is a warehouse automation consulting and execution firm that focuses on facility design, network optimization and material handling integration, as well as supply chain technology engineering. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 16 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

optimize + -ation

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing optimization

• sub-optimization

Rhymes for optimization

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration