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

Neurodivergent clients possess valuable strengths and insights that can only be leveraged when a business creates optimal space for their needs to be heard and honored. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2025

From there, proper preparation work, including knowing how to display items for optimal resale potential, will go a long way. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Aug. 2025

For optimal viewing, find a clear, dark sky and look toward the northeast — although meteors can appear in any part of the sky. —Todd Karpovich, Baltimore Sun, 12 Aug. 2025

Also, their longevity is unmatched, as their hardware and battery life can still function in optimal working conditions after five to 10 years of regular use. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 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