optimization

noun

op·ti·mi·za·tion ˌäp-tə-mə-ˈzā-shən

: an act, process, or methodology of making something (such as a design, system, or decision) as fully perfect, functional, or effective as possible

specifically : the mathematical procedures (such as finding the maximum of a function) involved in this

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Optimization started its gradual perfection in mid-19th-century English, when it was derived from optimize, a word first used in the early part of that same century with the meaning "to make the best or most of." In basic applications, optimization refers to the act or process of making something as good as it can be. In the 21st century, it has seen much use in technical contexts having to do with attaining the best possible functionality, as in "network optimization" and "search engine optimization" (SEO). Like the words optimum and optimism (which refer, respectively, to the amount or degree of something that is best or most effective, and to a feeling or belief that good things will happen in the future), optimize and optimization derive from Latin optimus, meaning "best."

Examples of optimization in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This optimization will enable them to surpass customers’ expectations, build loyalty and gain a competitive advantage. —

Araya Solomon, Forbes, 2 Oct. 2024 One calculates the ground-state energy of molecules, and the second performs optimizations. —

John Timmer, Ars Technica, 27 Sep. 2024 The focus remains the optimization of existing infrastructure as well as sound and image technology, and maintaining an elevated level of cleanliness. —

Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 20 Sep. 2024 Their five-stage process — immersion, alignment, growth, optimization and exit — ensures alignment at every step. —

Fairchild Studio, WWD, 20 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for optimization

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'optimization.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.