maximal

[mak-suh-muhl]

adjective

1. of or being a maximum; greatest possible; highest.

maximal

/ ˈmæksɪməl /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or achieving a maximum; being the greatest or best possible

2. maths (of a member of an ordered set) being preceded, in order, by all other members of the set

Other Word Forms

• maximally adverb
• postmaximal adjective
• submaximal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of maximal¹

First recorded in 1880–85; maxim(um) + -al ¹

Example Sentences

For Riley, “In C” launched a maximal musical journey and one of the most remarkable in American music.

From Los Angeles Times

Beutler argued that Republicans always make maximal demands in these stand-offs, and over the years, they have repeatedly managed to get Democrats to back down.

From Salon

Waving away his campaign pledge to lower the cost of groceries, Trump focused instead on maximal cruelty and political retribution dispersed with a wrecking ball.

From Salon

Still, Bouie is right: If Trump wants to marshal hundreds — or more likely thousands — of people into risking prison on his behalf, he will need to bring maximal powers of personal persuasion to bear.

From Salon

The plan emphasizes local control over housing policies, opposing federal efforts to weaken single-family zoning and advocating for maximal flexibility in local land use and zoning decisions.

From Salon