maximum
/ˈmaksɪməm
/adjective [attributive]
As great, high, or intense as possible or permitted: the vehicle’s maximum speed a maximum penalty of ten years' imprisonment...
- And this maximum possible speed is the velocity of light.
- Although the light beam is traveling toward us at the maximum speed possible, it cannot keep up with the stretching of space.
- Under this plan, the average longevity of a genus is halfway between the minimum and the maximum possible.
Synonyms
greatest, highest, biggest, largest, top, topmost, most, utmost, supreme, maximal, paramount, extreme
noun (plural maxima /ˈmaksɪmə/ or maximums)
The greatest amount, extent, or intensity possible, permitted, or recorded: the school takes a maximum of 32 pupils production levels are near their maximum...
- In the meantime we will all be carrying on our activities to the maximum possible within the law.
- It can boost our body's temperature to the maximum to coincide with the demands of the day.
- Whilst farmers now produce to the maximum - 18m tons - the EU consumes 12.5m tons a year.
Synonyms
upper limit, limit, utmost, uttermost, greatest, most, extreme, extremity, peak, height, ceiling, top, summit, pinnacle, crest, apex, vertex, apogee, acme, zenith
Origin
Mid 17th century (as a noun): from modern Latin, neuter (used as a noun) of the Latin adjective maximus, superlative of magnus 'great'. The adjectival use dates from the early 19th century.
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