maximize

verb

max·​i·​mize ˈmak-sə-ˌmīz How to pronounce maximize (audio)
maximized; maximizing
Synonyms of maximizenext

transitive verb

1
: to increase to a maximum
maximize profits
2
: to make the most of
arranged the furniture to maximize space in the small apartment
3
: to find a maximum value of
4
: to increase the size of (a window) to fill an entire computer screen
maximization
ˌmak-sə-mə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce maximize (audio)
noun
maximizer
ˈmak-sə-ˌmī-zər How to pronounce maximize (audio)
noun

Examples of maximize in a Sentence

I rearranged the furniture to maximize the space in my small apartment. This program will teach you how to maximize your strengths while minimizing your weaknesses.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Work-life balance has become a major priority for Gen Z, with young workers increasingly placing a premium on maximizing time away from their jobs—even ranking it above pay in some surveys. — Preston Fore, Fortune, 28 Aug. 2026 Solar energy adds miles On top of that, the highest output came during a test designed to maximize solar generation. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 28 Aug. 2026 For example, the New York state budget document said out-of-network providers are using arbitration under the No Surprises Act and similar state legislation to maximize revenue. — Medora Lee, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026 Just several years ago, the demise of the seatback screen had seemed all but certain as part of airlines’ never-ending quest to cut costs and maximize profits. — Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for maximize

Word History

First Known Use

1815, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of maximize was in 1815

Rhymes for maximize

See All Rhymes for maximize

Browse Nearby Words

maximization
maximize
maximizer
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Maximize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maximize. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

maximize

verb
max·​i·​mize ˈmak-sə-ˌmīz How to pronounce maximize (audio)
maximized; maximizing
1
: to increase to a maximum
maximize profits
2
: to make the most of
maximize your opportunities
3
: to increase the size of (a window) to fill an entire computer screen

More from Merriam-Webster on maximize

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for maximize

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