optimization

American  

[op-tuh-muh-zey-shuhn] / ˌɒp tə məˈzeɪ ʃən /

1. the fact of optimizing; making the best of anything.

2. the condition of being optimized.

3. Mathematics. a mathematical technique for finding a maximum or minimum value of a function of several variables subject to a set of constraints, as linear programming or systems analysis.

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Etymology

Origin of optimization

First recorded in 1855–60; optimize + -ation

Example Sentences

To contain the damage of higher prices to their businesses, several regions highlighted inflation mitigation strategies that ranged from supply-chain optimization, product adjustments, reduced offerings, and temporarily absorbing higher costs to preserve customer demand.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026

But embracing gate-model systems allows the company to expand its customer base beyond those using quantum for supply-chain optimization and related tasks.

From Barron's • Jun. 1, 2026

Researchers also introduced a byte-encoding compression technique that cuts memory requirements by a factor of eight, along with a dynamic optimization system that continually improves data exchange between more than 16,000 GH200 Superchips.

From Science Daily • May 11, 2026

The companies worth owning are those with contracted demand, captive supply chain, or irreplaceable positions in the physical infrastructure that no amount of software optimization can eliminate.

From MarketWatch • May 11, 2026

Compiler optimization techniques and many aspects of OS design used to be deep magic; many techniques in cryptography, signal processing, graphics, and AI still are.

From The Jargon File, Version 4.2.2, 20 Aug 2000 by Steele, Guy L.

Related Words

• boost
• development
• escalation
• expansion
• gain
• hike
• increment
• inflation
• merger
• raise
• rise
• surge
• upsurge
• upturn