optimum

adjective

Definition of optimumnext
as in optimal

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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 optimum Chris Minson, a University of Oregon professor who researches how people can adapt to extreme heat and other environmental conditions, said the optimum temperature to run a marathon is about 50 degrees. — Scott McFetridge, Los Angeles Times, 17 Aug. 2026 But hotter springs and summers are accelerating the grape-ripening process, creating more sugary fruit and narrowing the optimum picking window for Champagne. — Jenni Reid, CNBC, 15 Aug. 2026 By cutting the physical link between engine and wheels, Nissan software allows the engine to run at optimum thermal efficiency. — New Atlas, 13 Aug. 2026 The number was worked out by structural engineers as the optimum number for a balancing game. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 12 Aug. 2026 The engine also features larger intake valves and hydrogen-specific injectors to enable optimum fuel-to-air mixing within the cylinders. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 9 Aug. 2026 Different varieties of turfgrasses will have different optimum heights of cut. — Amanda Tust, Architectural Digest, 7 Aug. 2026 The optimum amount of sleep varies by individual, but most people need between seven and nine hours a night. — Veronique Greenwood, Time, 8 July 2026 In many cases, the optimum starting age is 70, which is the maximum starting age with the highest monthly benefit. — Steve Vernon, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optimum
  1. optimal
  2. maximum
  3. excellent
  4. superb
  5. prime
  6. outstanding
  7. special
  8. first-class
Adjective
  • His flowering is optimal for someone who hosts a show called The Reluctant Traveler, and Levy and director David Brindley both agree that the comedian’s hesitations have waned — at least a little.
    — Matthew Jacobs, HollywoodReporter, 17 Aug. 2026
  • That analysis showed that by holding the race later in October, runners would have a far greater chance of optimal conditions.
    — Scott McFetridge, Los Angeles Times, 17 Aug. 2026
Definition of optimal
Adjective
  • One of the most powerful figures in Iran has said that the US campaign of maximum economic pressure will fail — in a further sign that Iran’s hardline leadership is unwilling to compromise despite a deepening economic crisis.
    — Tim Lister, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026
  • Rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches, with maximum amounts of 5, are expected across the remainder of the Hawaiian islands.
    — Nadine El-Bawab, ABC News, 23 Aug. 2026
Definition of maximum
Adjective
  • Simashev is excellent defensively and on retrievals and tilts the ice in his favor.
    — Corey Pronman, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • As far as pop stars who happen to also be thoughtful and excellent songwriters go, Kahan is in the upper ranks.
    — Chris Willman, Variety, 17 Aug. 2026
Definition of excellent
Adjective
  • Malgorzata Szumowska, Michal Englert) Aimee Lou Wood and Johnny Flynn are superb as Anna and Fyodor Dostoevsky in Małgorzata Szumowska and Michał Englert’s acerbic and joyful period film.
    — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 17 Aug. 2026
  • Segovia produced a superb spin before firing into the far corner.
    — Dean Jones, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026
Definition of superb
Adjective
  • The First Miami Presbyterian Church, home to the city’s oldest congregation, sits on a prime slice of waterfront real estate in Brickell.
    — Catherine Odom, Miami Herald, 22 Aug. 2026
  • The entire hardware system has obtained prime-level safety certification from TÜV.
    — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 22 Aug. 2026
Definition of prime
Adjective
  • His work there earned him a nomination for his first Primetime Emmy Award for outstanding guest actor in a drama series.
    — Victoria Edel, PEOPLE, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Logan Henderson, an outstanding rookie pitcher the Brewers chose to keep rather than including in a trade last month, outdueled Skubal in Sunday’s series finale at Los Angeles.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of outstanding
Adjective
  • And besides that, everybody else benefits from being able to enjoy their special gifts.
    — John Blake, CNN Money, 22 Aug. 2026
  • And a hometown getting to be part of something really special.
    — Chris Willman, Variety, 22 Aug. 2026
Definition of special
Adjective
  • So why not revive the Century 21 theater in San Jose and turn it into a first-class IMAX theater for Silicon Valley?
    — Sal Pizarro, Mercury News, 20 Aug. 2026
  • Each suite will include premium food and beverage options and first-class concierge service for all suite guests.
    — Bruce Martin, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of first-class

Browse Nearby Words

optimizing
optimum
opting
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Cite this Entry

“Optimum.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/optimum. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on optimum

Nglish: Translation of optimum for Spanish Speakers

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