D defs.my
Entry 2 senses · 2 variants Webster, 1913

Maximum

/măk'-səm-əm/ · Max·i·mum · IPA /ˈmæksɪməm/
01 n. The greatest quantity or value attainable in a given case; or, the greatest value attained by a quantity which first increases and then beg…
pl. Maxima ((#))
  1. 1.
    The greatest quantity or value attainable in a given case; or, the greatest value attained by a quantity which first increases and then begins to decrease; the highest point or degree; -- opposed to minimum.
    “Good legislation is the art of conducting a nation to the maximum of happiness, and the minimum of misery.” — P. Colquhoun.
Phrases & compounds
Maximum thermometer — a thermometer that registers the highest degree of temperature attained in a given time, or since its last adjustment.
02 a. Greatest in quantity or highest in degree attainable or attained; as, a maximum consumption of fuel; maximum pressure; maximum heat.
  1. 1.
    Greatest in quantity or highest in degree attainable or attained; as, a maximum consumption of fuel; maximum pressure; maximum heat.