# maximal

/ˈmæksəməɫ/ (US) · /mˈæksɪməl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/maximal
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

the greatest or highest amount possible. It describes something that has reached its full limit.

For teachers: constituting the greatest possible quantity, degree, or size. In technical contexts, it refers to an element that is not smaller than any other element in a specific set.

## Examples

- The athlete trained for maximal performance.
- The project requires maximal effort from every team member to meet the tight deadline.
- In formal logic, a set is considered maximal if no other element can be added without violating the established consistency of the system.

## Usage notes

- Often used in technical, scientific, or formal contexts as a more precise alternative to 'maximum'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.