maximum

The word “maximum” means the greatest amount, level, or degree that is possible or allowed. In plain terms, the top limit — the most that something can be.

“Maximum” is pronounced MAK-sih-muhm (/ˈmæksɪməm/ in IPA).

Here is “maximum” used in a sentence: “The lift has a maximum capacity of ten people.”

Words with a similar meaning to “maximum” include max.

The opposite of “maximum” — its antonyms — is minimum.

Depending on how it is used, “maximum” can be a noun and an adjective.

The word “maximum” comes from Latin. Borrowed via French from Latin maximum, the neuter form of maximus ("greatest").

“Maximum” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

They are opposites. The maximum is the greatest amount, level, or degree possible or allowed, while the minimum is the smallest. A maximum speed is the fastest you may go; a minimum age is the youngest you may be. If you reach the maximum you can go no higher; the minimum, no lower.

There are two accepted plurals: 'maxima' and 'maximums.' 'Maxima,' following the original Latin, is common in science, mathematics, and technical writing. 'Maximums' is the regular English form and is perfectly correct in everyday use. Both are understood, so the choice usually depends on how formal or technical the context is.

A road with a maximum speed of seventy miles per hour sets the highest legal limit. A lift with a maximum load, a bank card with a maximum daily withdrawal, or the maximum temperature recorded in a heatwave all show the same idea: the greatest amount possible or permitted.

The direct opposite is 'minimum,' the smallest amount, level, or degree possible or allowed. Depending on the sentence, related opposites include 'least,' 'lowest,' or 'floor,' since a minimum acts as a lower boundary just as a maximum acts as an upper one.