The plural of maximum; the highest points or greatest values in a set of data or on a mathematical function. The peak values in any collection or range.
Latin plural of maximum, from maximus meaning 'greatest, largest.' Maximus is the superlative of magnus 'great, large.' The mathematical usage developed in the 17th century with the rise of calculus and analytical mathematics.
While 'maximum' feels like a modern technical term, it's actually pure Latin that Romans would have recognized immediately. In calculus, finding maxima and minima is fundamental to optimization—essentially mathematical treasure hunting for the best and worst possible outcomes in any situation.
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