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

Farmers who fear not being able to optimize their corn yields may decide to plant less corn or switch crops and plant soybeans, which need less fertilizer. —Aya S. Chacar, Fortune, 9 Apr. 2026

One performance indicator can be optimized, but other aspects must be compromised. —New Atlas, 9 Apr. 2026

Cheaks touted his bureaucratic experiences, promising to optimize city services and make the department more proactive in communicating with aldermen and Chicago residents alike. —Talia Soglin, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2026

Last year’s Materialists was the rare movie tackling whether finding The One matters in an era when people seek to optimize their dating life. —Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 8 Apr. 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
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize