maximal

adjective

max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl How to pronounce maximal (audio)
1
: being an upper limit : highest
2
: most comprehensive : complete
maximally adverb

Examples of maximal in a Sentence

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.
And Just Like That is almost upon us—and with it, another series full of increasingly maximal, mad fashion choices. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 22 May 2025 Unbleached cord, woven in a simple checkerboard pattern, offers a maximal contrast to the industrial chrome frame and allows the system to transform into a ten-piece collection of soft benches, chairs, stools and tables. Anthony Paletta, Curbed, 20 May 2025 From high glam grills at Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour to natural beauty looks on Mother’s Day, this week was all about both the minimal and the maximal. India Espy-Jones, Essence, 12 May 2025 That would be in stark contrast to MSR’s more methodical approach, which is designed to deliver many samples sourced from a wide range of terrain and carefully curated to be of maximal scientific value—that is, material thought most likely to harbor evidence of past or even present Mars life. Leonard David, Scientific American, 8 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for maximal

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of maximal was in 1882

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Cite this Entry

“Maximal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maximal. Accessed 30 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

maximal

adjective
max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl How to pronounce maximal (audio)
1
: being an upper limit : highest
maximal growth
2
: most comprehensive : complete
maximal recovery

Medical Definition

maximal

adjective
max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl How to pronounce maximal (audio)
1
: most complete or effective
maximal dental protection
maximal vasodilation
2
: being an upper limit
the maximal levels achieved with subcutaneous injectionsW. S. Hoffman
maximally adverb

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