# optimize

> English word · Verb · IPA /ˈɑptɪmaɪz/ · frequency rank #18,909

## Definitions
1. To act optimistically or as an optimist.
2. To make (something) optimal.
3. To make (something) more efficient, such as a computer program.
4. To become optimal.

## Etymology
(1844) Back-formation from optimist.

## Easily confused with
- **optimism** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/optimism-vs-optimize)
- **optimist** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/optimist-vs-optimize)
- **optimise** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/optimise-vs-optimize)

## Common misspellings (11)
`opitmize`, `opptimize`, `optiimze`, `optimiez`, `optimizze`, `optimmize`, `optimzie`, `optmiize`, `opttimize`, `otpimize`, `potimize`

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/optimize