maximal

UK: ˈmæksɪməl | US: ˈmæksɪməl

Definition

  1. adj. being the greatest or highest possible in quantity, degree, or intensity

  2. adj. (mathematics) relating to an upper bound or largest element in a set

Structure
maxim <greatest>al <adjective suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin maximus (greatest), the superlative form of magnus (large/great). The suffix -al (from Latin -alis) converts the root into an adjective. The word evolved through French maximal in the 19th century, retaining its core meaning of "utmost" while gaining specialized uses in mathematics and logic.

Examples

  1. The experiment was conducted under maximal safety conditions.

  2. His maximal effort earned him a gold medal.

  3. The function reaches its maximal value at this point.

  4. She aimed for maximal efficiency in her workflow.

  5. The design allows for maximal sunlight exposure.