maximization

[English maximiz(e); -ation.] The act of maximizing or raising to the highest degree. max-Im-ize, v. t. [Lat. maxim ( us )=greatest; Eng. suff. -ize.] To raise or increase to the highest degree; to make as great as po ible. max-1-mum ( pl. max-i-ma), s. & a. [Latin neut. sing. of maximus greatest, superlative of magnus great.] bốil, boy; pout, jowl; cat, çell, chorus, chin, bench; go, gem; thin, this; May-duke A. As subst.: The greatest quantity or degree at tainable or attained, in any given case; opposed to minimum (q.v.). Maxima and minima: Math. & Physics: The greatest and least values of a variable quantity. A function of a single variable is at a maximum state when it is greater than both the state which immediately precedes and the state which immediately follows it; and it is at a minimum state when it is le than both the state which immediately precedes and the state which immediately follows it. B. As adj .: The greatest; greatest in amount or degree. maximum-barometer, s . A barometer having an indicator so arranged as to follow the movement of the mercury up to the highest point which it may reach, and there remain stationary when the mercury recedes, thus showing the maximum height of the column and consequent maximum of pre ure during storms.