optimize

[ op-tuh-mahyz ]

/ ˈɒp təˌmaɪz /

verb (used with object), op·ti·mized, op·ti·miz·ing.

to make as effective, perfect, or useful as possible.

to make the best of.

Computers. to write or rewrite (the instructions in a program) so as to maximize efficiency and speed in retrieval, storage, or execution.

Mathematics. to determine the maximum or minimum values of (a specified function that is subject to certain constraints).

verb (used without object), op·ti·mized, op·ti·miz·ing.

to be optimistic.

Nearby words

optime, optimism, optimist, optimistic, optimization, optimize, optimum, optimum dose, optimum population, option, option money

Also especially British, op·ti·mise.

Origin of optimize

First recorded in 1835–45; optim(um) + -ize

Can be confused

maximize optimize

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

British Dictionary definitions for optimise

optimize

optimise

/ (ˈɒptɪˌmaɪz) /

verb

(tr) to take the full advantage of

(tr) to plan or carry out (an economic activity) with maximum efficiency

(intr) to be optimistic

(tr) to write or modify (a computer program) to achieve maximum efficiency in storage capacity, time, cost, etc

(tr) to find the best compromise among several often conflicting requirements, as in engineering design

Derived Forms

optimization or optimisation, 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