optimize

verb

op·​ti·​mize ˈäp-tə-ˌmīz 

optimized; optimizing

transitive verb

: to make as perfect, effective, or functional as possible

optimize energy use

optimize your computer for speed and memory

—Charles Brannon

optimizer

ˈäp-tə-ˌmī-zər 

noun

Examples of optimize in a Sentence

The new system will optimize the efficiency with which water is used.

Recent Examples on the Web

And capital markets, designed to optimize for returns—not prevention—are not built to respond. —Felicia Jackson, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025

The energy category has the highest percentage of low-impact processes (85 percent), suggesting that practices in this area are well optimized. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 7 Apr. 2025

Why measles gets deadlier with age of first contact is still not entirely understood; the adult immune system must somehow be less optimized to fight off the virus. —Sarah Zhang, The Atlantic, 7 Apr. 2025

This clean-sheet architecture optimizes the use of gaseous hydrogen, addressing the challenges of incorporating this fuel into existing aircraft designs. —Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, FOXNews.com, 7 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

earlier, "to make the best or most of," from optim(um) or optim(ism) + -ize

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing optimize

• sub-optimize

Rhymes for optimize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize