— efficiently , adv.
/i fish"euhnt/ , adj.
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.
[ 1350-1400; ME ( efficient- (s. of efficiens ), equiv. to ef- EF- + fic-, comb. form of facere to make, DO 1 + -ent- -ENT ]
Syn. 1. effectual. See effective .