Main Entry: ef·fi·cient

Pronunciation: \i-ˈfi-shənt\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin efficient-, efficiens, from present participle of efficere

Date: 14th century

1 : being or involving the immediate agent in producing an effect <the efficient action of heat in changing water to steam>
2 : productive of desired effects; especially : productive without waste <an efficient worker>

synonyms see effective

— ef·fi·cient·ly adverb