optimal

adjective

op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl How to pronounce optimal (audio)
Synonyms of optimal
: 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 How to pronounce optimal (audio)
noun
optimally
ˈäp-tə-mə-lē How to pronounce optimal (audio)
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
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.
The Commission’s proposed 46% target falls short of that ambition, and of its own analysis, which identifies 50% as the economically optimal pathway to 2040. — Sophie Dembinski, Fortune, 16 Oct. 2026 The Segway Xiro Automatic Dropper Post is an e-bike accessory compatible with Segway’s Myon and Muxi e-bikes that automatically lowers the seat as the rider slows to a stop and returns to optimal pedaling height when riders push to resume riding. — Time Staff, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 These are exactly the same as the optimal number of cards to sacrifice when using Master Sun’s strategy. — Dana MacKenzie, Scientific American, 14 Oct. 2026 When the optimal price rose from one day to the next, the governor ensured that the new higher price was recommended. — Literary Hub, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for optimal

Word History

Etymology

optim(um) + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of optimal was in 1890

Phrases Containing optimal

Browse Nearby Words

optimacy
optimal
optimalize
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Optimal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optimal. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

Medical Definition

optimal

adjective
op·​ti·​mal ˈäp-tə-məl How to pronounce optimal (audio)
: most desirable or satisfactory : optimum
optimal concentrations of a drug
optimality
ˌäp-tə-ˈmal-ət-ē How to pronounce optimal (audio)
noun
plural optimalities
optimally
-mə-lē How to pronounce optimal (audio)
adverb

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