optimal

adjective

op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl How to pronounce optimal (audio)
Synonyms of optimalnext
: most desirable or satisfactory : optimum
the optimal use of class time
the optimal dosage of medication for a patient
conditions for optimal development
optimality noun
optimally adverb

Examples of optimal in a Sentence

He keeps his engine tuned for optimal performance. Under optimal conditions, these plants grow quite tall.
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.
The optimal level of caffeine intake for all sources was about 300 mg per day. New Atlas, 15 Feb. 2026 Plants need to be grown near like-minded plants for optimal growth and health. David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 15 Feb. 2026 This WanderFull crossbody purse features a soft, plush fabric, convenient zippered-pockets for optimal storage, and that iconic water bottle-cradling interior. Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 15 Feb. 2026 The optimal version of the Tigers includes those two pitchers at their best. Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 14 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for optimal

Word History

Etymology

optim(um) + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of optimal was in 1890

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Optimal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optimal. Accessed 18 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

optimal

adjective
op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl How to pronounce optimal (audio)
optimally adverb

Medical Definition

optimal

adjective
op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl How to pronounce optimal (audio)
: most desirable or satisfactory : optimum
optimal concentrations of a drug
optimality noun
plural optimalities
optimally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on optimal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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