- as large, fast, etc. as is possible, or the most that is possible or allowed
- the maximum amount/number of something
- Turn it right up to the maximum volume.
- The trains travel at a maximum speed of 100 mph.
- It was the highest maximum temperature ever recorded in the region.
- For maximum effect do the exercises every day.
- The offence carries a maximum prison sentence of ten years.
- a maximum security prison
Extra ExamplesTopics Maths and measurementb2- It's designed to appeal to the maximum number of people.
- Both men are facing a maximum penalty of a year in jail.
- The building is designed to let in the maximum amount of natural light.
Oxford Collocations DictionaryMaximum is used with these nouns:- advantage
- altitude
- amount
- …
Word Originmid 17th cent. (as a noun): from modern Latin, neuter (used as a noun) of the Latin adjective maximus, superlative of magnus ‘great’. The adjectival use dates from the early 19th cent.Want to learn more?
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maximum