Plain English Meaning
The speed that gets you the most altitude in the shortest amount of time. Fly this speed when you want to climb as quickly as possible.
Full Definition
The airspeed that produces the greatest gain in altitude per unit of time. It is the speed at which the airplane has the most excess power available for climbing, resulting in the highest rate of climb measured in feet per minute.
Context Anchor
You encounter this term in climb performance discussions, aircraft handbooks, and cockpit decisions after takeoff when choosing the climb speed to use.
Why Pilots Care
Using this speed minimizes time spent in the climb, which reduces and to or .