maximum M₃A₁X₈I₁M₃U₁M₃

Maximum names the highest limit or greatest value. In mathematics, it can describe the greatest value of a set or function, or an upper bound that belongs to the set itself. For word games, its tile mix is striking: three M’s surround a single eight-point X, and changing just its final letter makes MAXIMUS.

Maximum at a glance

• MAXIMUM has seven letters and a face-value Scrabble score of 20 points.
• Its three M tiles contribute 9 points; the X contributes 8.
• No anagram uses the same letters as MAXIMUM.
• MAXIMUS is its only one-letter neighbour, and 12 words rhyme with its final sound.

What does maximum mean?

Maximum means the highest limit or greatest amount. You might talk about the maximum speed on a road, or the maximum number of items allowed.

In mathematics, a maximum can be the greatest value reached by a set or function. It can also mean an upper bound that is itself part of the set.

That last detail separates a maximum from a mere upper bound: the maximum has to be attained. If no value reaches the limit, it is not the set’s maximum.

How does maximum score in Scrabble?

MAXIMUM scores 20 points before board bonuses. The X is the standout tile at 8 points, while each of the three M tiles is worth 3.

A, I and U add 1 point each, bringing the total to 20. The repeated M’s matter: together they are worth 9 points, more than the X on its own.

That is the face value, not a guaranteed turn score. Premium letter or word squares change the result, so check where the X lands before counting your play.

Its one neighbour and rhymes

MAXIMUM has one one-letter neighbour: MAXIMUS. The two words match through the first six letters and differ only at the end, a useful detail when you have MAXIMU on your rack or board.

Twelve listed words rhyme with MAXIMUM, including MINIMUM, OPTIMUM and EXTREMUM. The shared ending is “mum,” so the rhymes range from familiar opposites to less everyday vocabulary.

There are no anagrams to rearrange into another word. MAXIMUM is accepted in Collins, NWL2023 and ENABLE; check your game’s word list if it uses a different dictionary.