noun
maximum
MAK-sih-muhm
noun
1
The greatest amount, level, or degree that is possible or allowed.
"The lift has a maximum capacity of ten people."
"Speeding tickets carry a maximum fine of $500 in this state."
adj
1
As great as possible; the highest that can be reached.
"The engine can reach a maximum speed of 200 miles per hour."
How to Use Maximum
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe top limit — the most that something can be.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
maximum speed
maximum effort
a maximum of
Word Forms
maxima plural, maximums plural
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “maximum”
A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage
→
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The lift has a _____ capacity of ten people.
Etymology
Borrowed via French from Latin maximum, the neuter form of maximus ("greatest").