What does optimise mean?
Optimise means to improve something so that it works as effectively, efficiently, or appropriately as possible. The word is used with systems, processes, products, websites, chemical reactions, computer code, and many other subjects that can be adjusted for a better result. For example, engineers may optimise a machine to maximise output while reducing energy use, or a business may optimise a website to make navigation easier. In expressions such as “optimise for mobile users” or “optimise for conversion,” the word indicates that a particular objective will guide the necessary changes. Its neutral tone distinguishes it from more subjective alternatives such as enhance, which can imply improvement in quality or appeal. Although optimise is the usual spelling in British English, optimize is preferred in American English.
verbTo make something as effective, efficient, or suitable as possible, especially by adjusting its design, operation, or resources. It can also mean to tailor a process or system to achieve a particular outcome.
- To make something work as effectively or efficiently as possible by modifying or refining it.
- To tailor a process, system, or resource allocation toward a desired result.
"The team optimised the application to reduce loading times and use less memory."
"We optimised the website so that it would load quickly on mobile devices."
"The new production line is optimised for speed without compromising quality."
Optimise shares its root with optimum: both trace back to the Latin optimus, meaning “best.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does optimise come from?
Optimise ultimately comes through French from Latin optimus, meaning “best.” The related noun optimum originally referred to the best or most favourable condition, while modern usage extends the idea of the best outcome to processes and systems. Its associated words optimum, optimal, optimism, and optimistic all reflect the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How optimise is actually used
Optimise is the standard British spelling, while optimize is standard in US English. The phrase “optimise for” can imply that one factor is prioritised over others, so the intended goal may need to be stated explicitly.