Maximum
ˈmæksɪməm
Definitions
2 meaningsThe greatest quantity or degree attainable or permissible.
ˈmæksɪməm
The greatest possible amount or degree.
The maximum speed limit on this road is 60 mph.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're filling a glass with water. The maximum is when the glass is completely full, you can't add any more. It's the most you can have or the biggest it can be.
👶 For kids: The most something can be.
More Examples
The doctor recommended a maximum daily dose of medication.
The company set a maximum spending limit for the project.
How It's Used
"The maximum value of the function is 10."
"The maximum loan amount is determined by the borrower's creditworthiness."
"The maximum number of attendees at the event is 500."
Being the greatest or most extreme possible.
ˈmæksɪməm
Being the greatest or highest number or amount possible.
The maximum capacity of the stadium is 80,000 people.
💡 Simply: It means 'the most.' Like, if you're trying to get the best grade, you want the maximum score possible.
👶 For kids: The biggest or most something can be.
More Examples
We need to achieve maximum efficiency in our operations.
The engine is operating at maximum power.
How It's Used
"The maximum temperature recorded today was 30 degrees Celsius."
"The coach expects maximum effort from the team."
"A maximum grade will get you the highest score."
Idioms & expressions
maximize the potential
To make the most of something.
"The company is striving to maximize the potential of its new product."
From Latin *maximum* 'greatest', superlative of *magnus* 'great'.
The term 'maximum' has been used since the 17th century to denote something of the greatest degree or quantity. Its use in mathematical contexts became increasingly common from the 18th century onward.
Memory tip
Think of the highest point on a graph or scale; the 'max' point.