Ef*fi"cient (?), n.
An efficient cause; a prime mover.
God . . . moveth mere natural agents as an efficient only.
Hooker.
Ef*fi"cient (-ent), 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.
Hear it pronounced