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Synonyms

optimal

American  
[op-tuh-muhl] / ˈɒp tə məl /

adjective

  1. optimum.


optimal British  
/ ˈɒptɪməl /

adjective

  1. another word for optimum

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • optimality noun
  • optimally adverb
  • superoptimal adjective

Etymology

Origin of optimal

First recorded in 1885–90; optim(um) + -al 1

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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"When we 'get lost' observing nature, we experience an optimal level of arousal. We are not bored, nor too excited - and that gives us the feeling of 'positive relaxation'," she says.

From BBC

Lu explained that excessive light loss prevents the device from reaching the high intensities required for optimal operation.

From Science Daily

We recently endorsed greater use of Bayesian statistics in small studies and for identifying optimal dosing for children.

From The Wall Street Journal

“While the revised consideration is clearly not an optimal outcome, it remains more favorable than weekend reports suggesting Honeywell was considering terminating the deal,” said analysts at Jefferies of Johnson Matthey’s situation.

From MarketWatch

Forcing yourself to sleep outside your optimal time can lead to poorer sleep, Troxel says.

From The Wall Street Journal