optimal

adjective

op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl 

: most desirable or satisfactory : optimum

the optimal use of class time

the optimal dosage of medication for a patient

conditions for optimal development

optimality

ˌäp-tə-ˈma-lə-tē 

noun

optimally

ˈäp-tə-mə-lē 

adverb

Examples of optimal in a Sentence

He keeps his engine tuned for optimal performance.

Under optimal conditions, these plants grow quite tall.

Recent Examples on the Web

For example, a smart vaporizer could track your physiological response to different strains and, over time, recommend doses or strains that provide optimal results for your individual needs. —Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 19 Dec. 2024

Such a strategy benefits consumers and premium retailers aiming to deliver exceptional value and achieve optimal performance. —Tom Madsen, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

Try a 50-50 Blend: Combining sweeteners provides more optimal results. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 18 Dec. 2024

Mathematicians also want to find a general solution — a formula that gives a way to densely pack spheres in arbitrarily high dimensions, even if the packing isn’t completely optimal. —Jordana Cepelewicz, Quanta Magazine, 16 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

optim(um) + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing optimal

• sub-optimal

Kids Definition

optimal

adjective

op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl 

: optimum entry 2

optimally

-mə-lē 

adverb

Medical Definition

optimal

adjective

op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl 

: most desirable or satisfactory : optimum

optimal concentrations of a drug

optimality

ˌäp-tə-ˈmal-ət-ē 

noun

plural optimalities

optimally

-mə-lē 

adverb