efficiency
efficiency Lexical Profile
efficiency Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The state or quality of achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort, time, or expense.
"The new software update significantly improved the overall efficiency of our accounting department."
The ratio of the useful work performed by a machine, engine, or process to the total energy or heat expended.
"Engineers redesigned the turbine blades to increase the thermal efficiency of the power plant."
American A small, self-contained apartment consisting of a single main room for living and sleeping, a small kitchen area, and a bathroom.
"During his first year of graduate school, he rented a modest efficiency within walking distance of campus."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'efficiency' with 'efficacy' or 'effectiveness': 'efficiency' focuses on minimizing waste of time, effort, or energy while performing a task, whereas 'efficacy' and 'effectiveness' measure the ability to achieve a desired outcome regardless of resource expenditure.
• Rhymes for efficiency
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 16th century from Latin efficientia, from efficiens, the present participle of efficere ('to accomplish, work out'), formed from ex- ('out') and facere ('to make, do').