optimal

adjective

op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl How to pronounce optimal (audio)
: most desirable or satisfactory : optimum
the optimal use of class time
the optimal dosage of medication for a patient
conditions for optimal development
optimality noun
optimally 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This masterful, polished bourbon exemplifies the refinement possible with extended aging under optimal conditions. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025 Called the McBride site, the swath was once a historic homestead but is now being transformed into optimal sage-grouse habitat. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 7 May 2025 Trade timing The timing for adding bearish exposure to TSLA is optimal, as the stock has recently rallied to its $300 resistance level, forming a double-top pattern. Tony Zhang, CNBC, 7 May 2025 Avoid harsh cleaning solutions or synthetic leaf shines, hold off on fertilizing until active growth begins, and evaluate your plant setup for optimal care. Erica Browne Grivas, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for optimal

Word History

Etymology

optim(um) + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of optimal was in 1890

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Optimal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optimal. Accessed 12 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

optimal

adjective
op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl How to pronounce optimal (audio)
optimally adverb

Medical Definition

optimal

adjective
op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl How to pronounce optimal (audio)
: most desirable or satisfactory : optimum
optimal concentrations of a drug
optimality noun
plural optimalities
optimally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on optimal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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