nt]
| 1. | performing or functioning in the best possible manner with the least waste of time and effort; having and using requisite knowledge, skill, and industry; competent; capable: a reliable, efficient secretary. |
| 2. | satisfactory and economical to use: Our new air conditioner is more efficient than our old one. |
| 3. | producing an effect, as a cause; causative. |
| 4. | utilizing a particular commodity or product with maximum efficiency (usually used in combination): a fuel-efficient engine. |
ef·fi·cient (ĭ-fĭsh'ənt) adj.
[Middle English, from Old French, from Latin efficiēns, efficient-, present participle of efficere, to effect; see effect.] ef·fi'cient·ly adv. |