"maximum likelihood" refers to a statistical method used to find the most probable or likely value for a parameter based on observed data. It is a way to estimate the best possible value that explains the given data. Full definition
Full information maximum likelihood estimation was used to account for the small number of missing values. (link.springer.com)
Maximum likelihood exploratory factor analysis from administration in this sample indicated the items loaded on one factor, which accounted for 51 % of the sample variance. (scirp.org)
Maximum likelihood performed worst, especially for small samples sizes. (pacificclimate.org)