optimal

adjective

op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl How to pronounce optimal (audio)
: 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.
Available in three shades—each enriched with hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and vitamin E—this delivers optimal hydration with a wash of fresh color. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 25 Apr. 2025 Yet the reality that’s been hammered home is that the Lakers still haven’t cracked the other half of the code, the offensive side of the ball, where their 94 points Tuesday were enough — but far from optimal. Houston Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 25 Apr. 2025 Vibram rubber outsoles offer optimal grip on wet or dry surfaces, while a natural odor-control treatment keeps these shoes (and your feet) feeling fresh. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 24 Apr. 2025 Although the device isn't rechargeable, the 5-foot (1.5 m) cable ensures easy placement for optimal projection in any room. Tantse Walter, Space.com, 24 Apr. 2025 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 29 Apr. 2025.

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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