optimal

adjective

op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl 

: most desirable or satisfactory : optimum

the optimal use of class time

the optimal dosage of medication for a patient

conditions for optimal development

optimality

ˌäp-tə-ˈma-lə-tē 

noun

optimally

ˈäp-tə-mə-lē 

adverb

Examples of optimal in a Sentence

He keeps his engine tuned for optimal performance.

Under optimal conditions, these plants grow quite tall.

Recent Examples on the Web

Of course, the linen closet might be the most optimal storage spot for a few extra rolls of toilet paper, but try to steer clear of anything larger. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Dec. 2025

The researchers think the rough turbine surfaces provided an optimal habitat for such organisms. —Claire Cameron, Scientific American, 19 Dec. 2025

If cooking a meal at home isn’t optimal this Christmas, tasty alternatives are available. —Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 18 Dec. 2025

Advanced algorithms help identify optimal drilling locations, improving efficiency. —Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 18 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

optim(um) + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing optimal

• sub-optimal

Kids Definition

optimal

adjective

op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl 

: optimum entry 2

optimally

-mə-lē 

adverb

Medical Definition

optimal

adjective

op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl 

: most desirable or satisfactory : optimum

optimal concentrations of a drug

optimality

ˌäp-tə-ˈmal-ət-ē 

noun

plural optimalities

optimally

-mə-lē 

adverb