maximum

[[t]mæ̱ksɪməm[/t]]

♦♦♦

1) ADJ: ADJ n You use maximum to describe an amount which is the largest that is possible, allowed, or required.

Under planning law the maximum height for a fence or hedge is 2 metres...

China headed the table with maximum points.

Ant:

minimum

N-SING: oft a N of amount

Maximum is also a noun.

The law provides for a maximum of two years in prison... Twelve hours is the minimum, sixty hours the maximum.

2) ADJ: ADJ n You use maximum to indicate how great an amount is.

...the maximum amount of information...

It was achieved with minimum fuss and maximum efficiency...

He is expected to be transferred to a maximum security prison.

Ant:

minimum

3) ADV: amount ADV If you say that something is a particular amount maximum, you mean that this is the greatest amount it should be or could possibly be, although a smaller amount is acceptable or very possible.

We need an extra 6g a day maximum.

Ant:

minimum

4) PHRASE: PHR after v (emphasis) If you say that someone does something to the maximum, you are emphasizing that they do it to the greatest degree possible.

You have to develop your capabilities to the maximum.

Syn:

to the full