maximum

noun

max·​i·​mum ˈmak-s(ə-)məm 

plural maxima ˈmak-sə-mə  or maximums ˈmak-s(ə-)məmz 

1

a

: the greatest quantity or value attainable or attained

b

: the period of highest, greatest, or utmost development

2

: an upper limit allowed (as by a legal authority) or allowable (as by the circumstances of a particular case)

3

: the largest of a set of numbers

specifically : the largest value assumed by a real-valued continuous function defined on a closed interval

maximum adjective

Synonyms

• max
• most
• outside

Examples of maximum in a Sentence

achieved the maximum

Recent Examples on the Web

According to Wendy Luo, a representative of Generic, the unit can be built to a minimum of 400 square feet or a maximum of 800 square feet. —Clara McMahon, People.com, 6 Mar. 2025

In the Arctic, where sea ice is nearing its seasonal maximum, the ice extent was its lowest on record for the third month in a row. —Andrew Freedman, Axios, 6 Mar. 2025

The eventual maximums are 500 full memberships (which never expire) and 750 associate memberships (which renew every five years). —Sue Callaway, Robb Report, 5 Mar. 2025

On the menu The maximum of 40 guests will experience five courses that showcase local ingredients and individual culinary flair from both Diminich and Kaifer. —Kayleigh Ruller, Charlotte Observer, 4 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin, neuter of maximus biggest — more at maxim

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing maximum

• maximum likelihood
• maximum occupancy
• maximum security prison

Kids Definition

maximum

noun

max·​i·​mum ˈmak-s(ə-)məm 

plural maxima -sə-mə  or maximums

1

: the highest quantity, value, or development

2

: an upper limit allowed

maximum adjective

Medical Definition

maximum

noun

max·​i·​mum ˈmak-s(ə-)məm 

plural maxima -sə-mə  or maximums

1

a

: the greatest quantity or value attainable or attained

b

: the period of highest, greatest, or utmost development

2

: an upper limit allowed (as by a legal authority) or allowable (as by the circumstances of a particular case)

maximum adjective