optimum

American  

[op-tuh-muhm] / ˈɒp tə məm /

noun

PLURAL

optima, optimums

1. the best or most favorable point, degree, amount, etc., as of temperature, light, and moisture for the growth or reproduction of an organism.

2. the greatest degree or best result obtained or obtainable under specific conditions.

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adjective

1. most favorable or desirable; best.

   optimum conditions.

   Synonyms:

   optimal, perfect, ideal

optimum British  

/ ˈɒptɪməm /

noun

1. a condition, degree, amount or compromise that produces the best possible result

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adjective

1. most favourable or advantageous; best

   optimum conditions

Etymology

Origin of optimum

First recorded in 1875–80; from Latin: noun use of neuter of optimus “best,” superlative of bonus “good”

Compare meaning

How does optimum compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• optimum vs. optimal

Example Sentences

Qualifying was held under grey skies with temperatures of no more than 15C, and teams were having trouble getting their tyres warm enough for optimum grip.

From BBC

Verstappen admitted Red Bull had struggled to get the optimum out of their car this weekend, which had been a scrappy one up to qualifying.

From BBC

No, what really jazzed the bridge structural engineer was that he had produced optimum results for the expenditure.

From Seattle Times

Owners have the right to sell houses at an optimum time, but the Seattle area doesn’t need more families, otherwise solvent, living out of cars or in tents.

From Seattle Times

He stands too close to home plate to achieve optimum swing extension and “barrel up” pitches on the inner and middle parts of the strike zone.

From Los Angeles Times