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optimum - 4 dictionary results
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op⋅ti⋅mum
[op-tuh-muh
m]
noun, plural -ma [-muh]
, -mums, adjective –noun
| 1. | the best or most favorable point, degree, amount, etc., as of temperature, light, and moisture for the growth or reproduction of an organism. |
| 2. | the greatest degree or best result obtained or obtainable under specific conditions. |
–adjective
| 3. | most favorable or desirable; best: optimum conditions. |
Origin:
1875–80; < L: n. use of neut. of optimus best, suppletive superl. of bonus good
1875–80; < L: n. use of neut. of optimus best, suppletive superl. of bonus good

Synonyms:
3. ideal, perfect, optimal.
3. ideal, perfect, optimal.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
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Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
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Link To optimum
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
Cite This Source
optimum
1879, from L. optimum, neut. sing. of optimus "best" (used as a superl. of bonus "good"), probably related to ops "power, resources" (in which case the evolution is from "richest" to "the most esteemed") or to ob "in front of," with superlative suffix *-tumos. Originally in biology, in ref. to "conditions most favorable" (for growth, etc.).
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2001 Douglas Harper
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Main Entry: op·ti·mum
Pronunciation: 'äp-t&-m&m
Function: noun
Inflected Form: plural op·ti·ma /-m&/ also op·ti·mums
1 : the amount or degree of something that is most favorable to some end; especially : the mostfavorable condition for the growth and reproduction of an organism
2 : greatest degree attained or attainable under implied or specified conditions —optimum adjective
Merriam-Webster's Medical Dictionary, © 2002 Merriam-Webster, Inc.
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