MAXIMA

MAXIMUM

utmost, uttermost, maximum, level best

(noun) the greatest possible degree; “he tried his utmost”

maximum

(noun) the point on a curve where the tangent changes from positive on the left to negative on the right

maximum, upper limit

(noun) the largest possible quantity

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

maxima (plural maximæ or maximas)

(music) A music note equal to two (or sometimes three) longæ; in modern notation, this is typically equivalent to eight semibreves.

Usage notes

Due to the practices of prolation and mensuration in mediæval and Renaissance music, the precise length of a maxima varies widely, from as short as eight semibreves to as long as twenty-seven. In modern usage, where imperfect prolation is assumed in all cases, a maxima is taken to be worth eight semibreves. See the Wikipedia article on mensural notation for more information.

Synonyms

• larga

• duplex longa

• (American) octuple whole note

Noun

maxima

plural of maximum

Source: Wiktionary

MAXIMUM

Max"i*mum, n.; pl. Maxima. Etym: [L., neut. from maximus the greatest. See Maxim.]

Definition: 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 Ant: minimum. Good legislation is the art of conducting a nation to the maximum of happiness, and the minimum of misery. P. Colquhoun. Maximum thermometer, a thermometer that registers the highest degree of temperature attained in a given time, or since its last adjustment.

Max"i*mum, a.

Definition: Greatest in quantity or highest in degree attainable or attained; as, a maximum consumption of fuel; maximum pressure; maximum heat.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition