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maximize

[mak-suh-mahyz]
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verb (used with object), max·i·mized, max·i·miz·ing.
  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.
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Also especially British, max·i·mise.

Origin of maximize

First recorded in 1795–1805; maxim(um) + -ize
Related formsmax·i·mi·za·tion, max·i·ma·tion, nounmax·i·miz·er, noun
Can be confusedmaximize optimize
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
British Dictionary definitions for maximization

maximize

maximise

verb
  1. (tr) to make as high or great as possible; increase to a maximum
  2. maths to find the maximum of (a function)
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Derived Formsmaximization, maximisation or maximation, nounmaximizer or maximiser, noun
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for maximization

n.

1802, noun of action from maximize.

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maximize

v.

1802, formed in English from maximum + -ize; first attested in Bentham, who used it often. Related: Maximized; maximizing.

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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper