optimize

verb

op·​ti·​mize ˈäp-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce optimize (audio)
optimized; optimizing

transitive verb

: to make as perfect, effective, or functional as possible
optimize energy use
optimize your computer for speed and memoryCharles Brannon
optimizer noun

Examples of optimize in a Sentence

The new system will optimize the efficiency with which water is used.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
By clustering survey results and user-journey data, these tools can recommend content topics, design tweaks or outreach tactics to optimize the patient experience. Lauren Parr, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025 By empowering brands and retailers with on-demand data, the platform helps optimize inventory and streamline reordering. Peter Su, Rolling Stone, 6 June 2025 Amazon has also been getting help from robots to stow items in warehouses, a task previously done by humans, and leverages machine learning to optimize inventory placement and demand forecasting. Paulina Likos, CNBC, 6 June 2025 Where does that leave companies that have optimized themselves around leveraging until-now scarce tech talent to build products at scale? Gina Chua, semafor.com, 5 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for optimize

Word History

Etymology

earlier, "to make the best or most of," from optim(um) or optim(ism) + -ize

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of optimize was in 1941

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Optimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optimize. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.

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