optimal

adjective

Definition of optimalnext
as in optimum

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of optimal Johannes Kepler, the German polymath famous for his laws of planetary motion, conjectured that this arrangement was optimal back in 1611. — Jack Murtagh, Scientific American, 17 Sep. 2026 This electric kettle boils quickly and has five presets to reach the optimal brewing temperatures for specific tea varieties. — Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 17 Sep. 2026 When used effectively, data drives better decisions, faster responses and optimal resource allocation. — Rick Elliott, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2026 Fried adds that bare-root plants are typically shipped or sold wrapped in moist sawdust during their dormant seasons in the spring or fall to ensure optimal planting outcomes. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 16 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for optimal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optimal
  1. optimum
  2. maximum
  3. excellent
  4. superb
  5. prime
  6. outstanding
  7. special
  8. first-class
Adjective
  • The person running the game can start it with different rewards for cooperating and defecting to explore how the optimum strategy varies with reward and risk, which the players can figure out by varying the strategies across multiple rounds.
    — Chris Lee, ArsTechnica, 11 Sep. 2026
  • An exchanger may have lost efficiency, and optimum operating point may therefore have shifted.
    — Gregory Shahnovsky, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2026
Definition of optimum
Adjective
  • Rachel had maximum sustained winds of 40 mph and was located about 300 miles south of Acapulco, the center said.
    — Eugene Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 27 Sep. 2026
  • This chunky blanket brings maximum coziness without too much difficulty (or any knitting needles).
    — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 27 Sep. 2026
Definition of maximum
Adjective
  • Longbridge is an excellent option, especially for those looking to save money.
    — Liz Knueven,Kelsey Neubauer, CNBC, 28 Sep. 2026
  • Pricing for the conversion starts at 100,000 euros, or roughly $113,670, but does not include the donor 944, which runs around $60,000 in excellent condition, according to Hagerty.
    — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 28 Sep. 2026
Definition of excellent
Adjective
  • His homemaker mother Leonor (a superb Maude Sandham) and his 17-year-old sister Ilse (Karoline Watson) complete the immaculate family portrait, but there’s unrest there too.
    — Guy Lodge, Variety, 19 Sep. 2026
  • Now, however, the boutique physical media label Fun City Editions has released a superb Blu-ray of the film, featuring both a gorgeous restoration and illuminating supplements.
    — Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 17 Sep. 2026
Definition of superb
Adjective
  • Served from silver gueridon carts was prime rib, Dover sole meunière, and avocado crab Louis.
    — Elise Taylor, Vanity Fair, 2 Oct. 2026
  • Regulars return for the rooftop pool (imagine an early 1900s ocean liner), the Knightsbridge zip code, and its prime location across the street from Hyde Park.
    — Katharine Sohn, Architectural Digest, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of prime
Adjective
  • By the middle of 2025, there were at least $188 trillion worth of bonds outstanding, according to the Bank for International Settlements.
    — Robin Wigglesworth, Fortune, 29 Sep. 2026
  • Buybacks reduce the number of shares outstanding, increasing the ownership stake of remaining shareholders and, all else equal, boosting earnings per share.
    — Alexa LoMonaco, CNBC, 28 Sep. 2026
Definition of outstanding
Adjective
  • In the art context, institutions like Art Basel continue to craft special rules to accommodate the new money that only emerging markets like crypto seem able to supply.
    — Simon Denny, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2026
  • An ever-changing lineup of special Balinese cultural experiences is also part of the private club deal.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Oct. 2026
Definition of special
Adjective
  • Hawaiian Airlines’ 24 Airbus A330s will each get 22 all-new first-class suites with sliding doors, starting in 2028, and its first-ever premium-economy section, with 28 seats.
    — Leslie Josephs, CNBC, 29 Sep. 2026
  • Some people spend hundreds on first-class upgrades to feel better, but a pair of lightweight compression socks can prevent a lot of the pains that come with long travel days—even if you’re stuck in economy.
    — Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 27 Sep. 2026
Definition of first-class

Browse Nearby Words

optical illusions
optimal
optimally
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Cite this Entry

“Optimal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/optimal. Accessed 3 Oct. 2026.

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