Maximum
['mæksɪməm] or [ˈmæksəməm]
Definition
(noun.) the point on a curve where the tangent changes from positive on the left to negative on the right.
(noun.) the largest possible quantity.
Inputed by Frieda--From WordNet
Definition
(n.) The greatest quantity or value attainable in a given case; or, the greatest value attained by a quantity which first increases and then begins to decrease; the highest point or degree; -- opposed to minimum.
(a.) Greatest in quantity or highest in degree attainable or attained; as, a maximum consumption of fuel; maximum pressure; maximum heat.
Typist: Shirley
Synonyms and Antonyms
SYN:Ultimatum, climax, zenith, apex, completion, utmost, consummation, culmination,acme
ANT:Initiative, commencement, indication, incompletion, abortion, decrease, wane,minimum, morsel, fragment
Edited by Hamilton
Definition
adj. the greatest.—n. the greatest number quantity or degree: the highest point reached: (math.) the value of a variable when it ceases to increase and begins to decrease:—pl. Max′ima:—opp. to Minimum.—adj. Max′imal of the highest or maximum value.—adv. Max′imally.—v.t. Max′imise to raise to the highest degree.
Checked by Casey
Examples
- But this fact only indicates the need of persistent care to see to it that the function of intelligence is invoked to its maximum possibility. John Dewey. Democracy and Education.
- A maximum reading can then be made by manipulating the flexible connections, and this will show whether the two circuits are in accord. Rupert S. Holland. Historic Inventions.
- These are such as in my experience have aroused the greatest interest and initiative, and such as have at the same time given the maximum benefit from the informational standpoint. Bertha M. Clark. General Science.
- Both in time and space species and groups of species have their points of maximum development. Charles Darwin. On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection.
- It is equipped with four 550-horse-power motors and has a maximum speed of 60 miles per hour. Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
- Wherever names are written, there you will usually find the addressograph in use, saving time and money, guaranteeing 100 per cent accuracy and insuring maximum efficiency. Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
- This affords the maximum of riding comfort by the elimination of all jar and jolt occasioned by an uneven roadway. Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
- Then the plane was overhead, its shadows passing over the open glade, the throbbing reaching its maximum of portent. Hemingway, Ernest. For Whom The Bell Tolls.
- Lavender, which is one part blue and three parts white, would stimulate all three sets of nerves, but with a maximum of stimulation for the blue. Bertha M. Clark. General Science.
- Water is supplied to the two plungers under a pressure of 7,000 pounds per square inch, giving it a maximum capacity of 15,000 tons. Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
Checked by Dick