as in maximum
being the highest possible
The group wanted their performance to have the maximal amount of impact.
Related Words
Relevance
Dissimilar Words
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of maximal
Habits are built through repetition under imperfect conditions, not through short bursts of maximal effort.
—
Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 27 Jan. 2026
The drone was also equipped with lithium-ion polymer batteries designed to deliver maximal power during the shortest time.
—New Atlas, 15 Jan. 2026
When armed federal agents roll into residential neighborhoods under vague authority and maximal posture, the odds of catastrophe rise fast.
—Phil Morris The Minnesota Star Tribune, Arkansas Online, 10 Jan. 2026
The Shirtdress Minimal in detail but maximal in effect, this spring’s best shirtdresses were all about effortless elegance.
—Rosie Jarman, Vogue, 3 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for maximal
Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 27 Jan. 2026
The drone was also equipped with lithium-ion polymer batteries designed to deliver maximal power during the shortest time.
—New Atlas, 15 Jan. 2026
When armed federal agents roll into residential neighborhoods under vague authority and maximal posture, the odds of catastrophe rise fast.
—Phil Morris The Minnesota Star Tribune, Arkansas Online, 10 Jan. 2026
The Shirtdress Minimal in detail but maximal in effect, this spring’s best shirtdresses were all about effortless elegance.
—Rosie Jarman, Vogue, 3 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for maximal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for maximal
Adjective
-
The effect is country salvage, designed for maximum gardening efficiency.—
Leanne Potts,
Better Homes & Gardens,
10 Feb. 2026
-
State-of-the-art facilities like a high-speed gondola and high-tech snowmaking systems ensure maximum stoke.—
Stacey Leasca,
Travel + Leisure,
10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
-
Every season teams vie with utmost seriousness for a title that doesn’t do them any good at all when the next season comes just a few months later.—
Hannah Keyser,
CNN Money,
9 Feb. 2026
-
To honor the timeworn tradition of restoring the mind and body, being quiet and considerate while on site is of the utmost importance.—
Jennifer Prince,
Southern Living,
7 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Maximal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/maximal. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
