maximize

verb

max·​i·​mize ˈmak-sə-ˌmīz 

maximized; maximizing

transitive verb

1

: to increase to a maximum

2

: to make the most of

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 

noun

maximizer

ˈmak-sə-ˌmī-zər 

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

Another way to make a dent in your taxes is to maximize your retirement savings. —Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2024

It’s suspected the eerie messages referenced insurance industry practices of delaying claims and maximizing profits. —Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 5 Dec. 2024

To maximize flowering, prune late blooming clematis hard in February by clipping vines back to the lowest set of flower buds. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Dec. 2024

Buy plane tickets, maybe, or magically reorder your calendar to maximize your flow state. —David Pierce, The Verge, 5 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1802, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

maximize

verb

max·​i·​mize ˈmak-sə-ˌmīz 

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