Efficient \Ef*fi"cient\, a. [L. efficiens, -entis, p. pr. of
efficere to effect: cf. F. efficient. See Effect, n.]
Causing effects; producing results; that makes the effect to
be what it is; actively operative; not inactive, slack, or
incapable; characterized by energetic and useful activity;
as, an efficient officer, power.
The efficient cause is the working cause. --Wilson.
Syn: Effective; effectual; competent; able; capable;
material; potent.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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