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
• maximation noun
• maximizer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of maximize¹

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

Example Sentences

Georgia officials previously told The Current and ProPublica that Pathways was never designed to maximize enrollment.

From Salon

“These opportunities are being evaluated to maximize value and taxpayer dollars while maintaining mission readiness and security,” Williams said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times

In a podcast interview this year, he said that while conservative states generally try to limit the power of their attorneys general to “maximize freedom,” blue states have weaponized their offices.

From Salon

Yaroslavsky’s alternative proposal calls for the city to regroup in four months on strategies for requesting new proposals for expanding the Convention Center, as well as other strategies to “maximize the site’s positive economic impacts.”

From Los Angeles Times

“Mitch has my full support and mandate to lead this team and to maximize our effectiveness and performance,” she wrote.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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