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.
© Webster 1913.
Ef*fi"cient (?), n.
An efficient cause; a prime mover.
God . . . moveth mere natural agents as an efficient only.
Hooker.
© Webster 1913.