optimum
pronunciation
How to pronounce optimum in British English:
UK [ˈɒptɪməm]
How to pronounce optimum in American English:
US [ˈɑːptɪməm]
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- Noun:
- most favorable condition or greatest degree or amount possible under given circumstances
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- Adjective:
- most desirable possible under a restriction expressed or implied
Word Origin
- optimum (n.)
- 1879, from Latin optimum, neuter singular of optimus "best" (used as a superlative of bonus "good"), probably related to ops "power, resources" (in which case the evolution is from "richest" to "the most esteemed," thus from PIE root *op- "to work") or to ob "in front of," with superlative suffix *-tumos. Originally in biology, in reference to "conditions most favorable" (for growth, etc.). As an adjective from 1885.
Example
- 1. He shows conclusively that the eurozone is far from an optimum currency area .
- 2. For ms. christy , these are mathematical problems with no one optimum solution .
- 3. Researchers at manchester and newcastle universities recommend two tomato-based meals a day for optimum health .
- 4. For an in-depth look at both spirulina and chlorella , read superfoods for optimum health .
- 5. The optimum depth for their formation is about 120 miles beneath the surface , in the molten mantle .