optimize
[ op-tuh-mahyz ]
/ ˈɒp təˌmaɪz /
Save This Word!
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.
QUIZ
CAN YOU ANSWER THESE COMMON GRAMMAR DEBATES?
There are grammar debates that never die; and the ones highlighted in the questions in this quiz are sure to rile everyone up once again. Do you know how to answer the questions that cause some of the greatest grammar debates?
Question 1 of 7
Which sentence is correct?
Also especially British, op·ti·mise .
WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH optimize
maximize, optimizeDictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use optimize in a sentence
Several wide tables have been optimised for wide (browser) windows and may not look optimal in narrow windows or other formats.
A Dictionary of Arts, Manufactures and Mines|Andrew Ure
British Dictionary definitions for optimize
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 of optimize
optimization or optimisation, nounCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012