optimize

verb

op·​ti·​mize ˈäp-tə-ˌmīz 

optimized; optimizing

transitive verb

: to make as perfect, effective, or functional as possible

optimize energy use

optimize your computer for speed and memory

—Charles Brannon

optimizer

ˈäp-tə-ˌmī-zər 

noun

Examples of optimize in a Sentence

The new system will optimize the efficiency with which water is used.

Recent Examples on the Web

Amid the endless push to optimize, streamline, and summarize our thoughts, notes have staying power. — Rainesford Stauffer, Time, 24 July 2026

Evolution has optimized the structure of the Cas9 to stick to the former. — ArsTechnica, 24 July 2026

Traditional anti-submarine warfare tools are not optimized for small, slow, quiet autonomous vehicles. — Aditya Jadhav, Interesting Engineering, 24 July 2026

The study, being conducted by Jarrett Walker and Associates, is expected to consider the system’s operations from the top down, analyzing and optimizing future routes. — The Denver Post Editorial Board, Denver Post, 24 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

earlier, "to make the best or most of," from optim(um) or optim(ism) + -ize

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing optimize

• sub-optimize

Rhymes for optimize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize
• butterflies