maximal

adjective

max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl How to pronounce maximal (audio)
1
: being an upper limit : highest
2
: most comprehensive : complete
maximally adverb

Examples of maximal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Turning her childhood bedroom into a zone of maximal coziness—including, recently, with the addition of a white Aeron chair—was a way of asserting control. Kyle Chayka, The New Yorker, 20 Nov. 2024 This maximal turnout reflects some combination of massive campaign effort, the state’s culture of political engagement, and the fact that voters have had years to internalize their own importance, based on the knowledge that Wisconsin’s presidential elections are routinely close and consequential. Craig Gilbert, Journal Sentinel, 12 Nov. 2024 That’s two-thirds of its own mass, and 93% of its maximal gape area. Michael Irving, New Atlas, 1 Nov. 2024 For maximal protein, combine peanuts, almonds, and pistachios. Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 22 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for maximal 

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of maximal was in 1882

Dictionary Entries Near maximal

Cite this Entry

“Maximal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maximal. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

maximal

adjective
max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl How to pronounce maximal (audio)
1
: being an upper limit : highest
maximal growth
2
: most comprehensive : complete
maximal recovery

Medical Definition

maximal

adjective
max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl How to pronounce maximal (audio)
1
: most complete or effective
maximal dental protection
maximal vasodilation
2
: being an upper limit
the maximal levels achieved with subcutaneous injectionsW. S. Hoffman
maximally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on maximal

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