maximize

especially British, max·i·mise

[mak-suh-mahyz]

verb (used with object)

maximized, maximizing 

1. to increase to the greatest possible amount or degree.

   to look for ways of maximizing profit.

2. to represent at the highest possible estimate; magnify.

   He maximized his importance in the program, minimizing the contributions of the other participants.

3. to make the greatest or fullest use of.

   Maximize your time by planning ahead.

maximize

/ ˈmæksɪˌmaɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to make as high or great as possible; increase to a maximum

2. maths to find the maximum of (a function)

Other Word Forms

• maximization noun
• maximizer noun
• maximation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of maximize¹

First recorded in 1795–1805; maxim(um) + -ize

Example Sentences

“But while I am here, I’m going to try to stay open-minded about what I have here and maximize that as much as I can.”

From Los Angeles Times

Its dual statutory goals are to maximize nationwide employment and protect the value of the U.S. dollar.

From Salon

Bilodeau has moved from center to power forward and Dailey from power forward to small forward in moves that could help maximize their skills.

From Los Angeles Times

By their own admission, Saenz said, Texas lawmakers redrew their maps in 2021 in order to maximize Republican advantage in congressional races — with the only limits being those imposed by the Voting Rights Act.

From Los Angeles Times

But TikTok said it would "maximize effectiveness and speed as we evolve this critical function for the company with the benefit of technological advancements".

From BBC

Related Words

• augment 
• bloat 
• boost 
• enlarge 
• escalate 
• exaggerate 
• expand 
• magnify 
• overestimate 
• pad 
• widen