optimization
noun
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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
Yuval Boger, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
France is a senior member of the leadership team at Frasers with experience in real estate optimization and business development, and will represent Frasers on the board.
—Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 10 July 2025
Samsung didn't have a ton of software features or changes to share outside of better app optimizations to take advantage of the big screen.
—Julian Chokkattu, Wired News, 9 July 2025
Meirav outlines three categories where breath data can have a transformative impact: fitness optimization, disease insight, and emotional or psychological regulation.
—William Jones, USA Today, 8 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for optimization
Cite this Entry
“Optimization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optimization. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.
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