maximize

American  

[mak-suh-mahyz] / ˈmæk səˌmaɪz /

especially British, maximise

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.

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maximize British  

/ 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)

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Other Word Forms

• maximation noun
• maximization noun
• maximizer noun

Etymology

Origin of maximize

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

Example Sentences

At one session, instructor Jon Harney led the group in breathing techniques, emphasized the importance of vocal health and explained how to maximize vocal resonance.

From The Wall Street Journal

On tariffs, to maximize trading profit required getting three things right, and I only scored one-and-a-half out of three.

From The Wall Street Journal

“China’s trade policy is basically set on maximizing its global export market share,” said Logan Wright, head of China market research at Rhodium Group.

From The Wall Street Journal

Tasks once done by humans and requiring technical skill can now be automated, enabling these organizations to downsize, minimize risk and maximize profit.

From The Wall Street Journal

Discussing the idea with tax experts and others, Walker realized he could maximize the payouts if they came from an acquirer, rather than his family, to avoid having the money taxed twice.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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