optimization

[op-tuh-muh-zey-shuhn]

1. the fact of optimizing; making the best of anything.

2. the condition of being optimized.

3. Mathematics.,  a mathematical technique for finding a maximum or minimum value of a function of several variables subject to a set of constraints, as linear programming or systems analysis.

Word History and Origins

Origin of optimization¹

First recorded in 1855–60; optimize + -ation

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