maximal

adjective

max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl How to pronounce maximal (audio)
Synonyms of maximalnext
1
: being an upper limit : highest
2
: most comprehensive : complete
maximally adverb

Examples of maximal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Women also carry a higher proportion of fatigue-resistant slow-twitch muscle fibers, and studies of ultra-distance trail runners have found women sustain less peripheral fatigue and lose less maximal force than men competing at equivalent levels. — Lindsey Darvin, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 Participants sit with the elbow bent at a 90-degree angle and perform a brief maximal squeeze on the handle with each hand. — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 23 July 2026 Long associated with kitschy vacation souvenirs and childhood camp jewelry, today’s beading feels markedly more refined, offering a statement-making alternative that complements the season’s polished yet maximal resortwear. — Lauren Fisher, Footwear News, 22 June 2026 An analysis of body masses and maximal running speeds for 100 terrestrial mammals—with typical adult body masses ranging from more than 6,000 kilograms to 16 grams (African elephant to mouse)—found the optimal size for running to be about 120 kilograms, about the size of a mule deer. — Literary Hub, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for maximal

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of maximal was in 1882

Phrases Containing maximal

Rhymes for maximal

See All Rhymes for maximal

Browse Nearby Words

Maxim
maximal
maximalism
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Maximal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maximal. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

maximal

adjective
max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl How to pronounce maximal (audio)
1
: being an upper limit : highest
maximal growth
2
: most comprehensive : complete
maximal recovery

Medical Definition

maximal

adjective
max·​i·​mal ˈmak-s(ə-)məl How to pronounce maximal (audio)
1
: most complete or effective
maximal dental protection
maximal vasodilation
2
: being an upper limit
the maximal levels achieved with subcutaneous injections—W. S. Hoffman
maximally
-ē How to pronounce maximal (audio)
adverb

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