from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Maximum \Max"i*mum\, n.; pl. {Maxima}. [L., neut. from maximus
the greatest. See {Maxim}.]
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}.
[1913 Webster]
Good legislation is the art of conducting a nation to
the maximum of happiness, and the minimum of misery.
--P.
Colquhoun.
[1913 Webster]
{Maximum thermometer}, a thermometer that registers the
highest degree of temperature attained in a given time, or
since its last adjustment.
[1913 Webster]