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Definition of optimal

optimal

/ˈɑːp.tə.məl/
op · ti · mal
Adverb:optimally
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optimal Lexical Profile

optimal Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Best or most favorable; most likely to bring success or advantage under a particular set of circumstances.

Example

"Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is essential for achieving optimal cognitive performance."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for optimal
Antonyms
View all antonyms for optimal

Word Nuance & Usage

Because 'optimal' inherently means 'the best' or 'most favorable', it is considered an absolute adjective by many style guides and should generally not be modified by 'more' or 'most'. While 'optimal' and 'optimum' are largely interchangeable as adjectives, 'optimum' is also commonly used as a noun.

• Rhymes for optimal

• Nearby Words

optically
optician
optics
optimal
optimally
optimism
optimist

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century from the stem of Latin 'optimus' (meaning 'best', used as the superlative of 'bonus' meaning 'good') combined with the English adjectival suffix '-al'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Optimal. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/optimal
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