Plural of Maximum
When “maximum” is a countable noun, both “maximums” and “maxima” are accepted plurals. The adjective “maximum” does not need a plural ending, so first decide whether the word is functioning as a noun.
The noun “maximum” has two accepted plurals: “maximums” and “maxima.”
Key details
Choose the right form
| Meaning / situation | Form / construction | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| one highest value | maximum | Singular noun. |
| several highest values | maximums | Accepted plural noun. |
| several highest values | maxima | Also accepted plural noun. |
| modifier before a plural noun | maximum values | Adjective remains unchanged. |
Quick tests
Plural-choice test
Is “maximum” itself the noun being counted?
If yes: Use “maximums” or “maxima” for more than one.
If no: If it modifies another noun, keep “maximum” unchanged.
Caveat: This page does not rank the two noun plurals without a style-specific rule.
Examples
The graph has two local maxima.
“Maxima” is an accepted plural noun.
The policy sets different maximums for each category.
“Maximums” is also accepted.
The maximum values are shown in bold.
As a modifier, “maximum” stays unchanged.
Further guidance
Core difference
Use “maximums” or “maxima” for several maximum points or values.
Fast Test
If “maximum” directly modifies another noun, do not pluralize it just because that following noun is plural.
Usage Boundary
Do not confuse noun inflection with the unchanged adjective form.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- MAXIMUM | English meaning - Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Cambridge gives maximums and maxima as accepted plurals of the noun maximum.