effectual

[ ih-fek-choo-uhl ]

adjective

1. producing or capable of producing an intended effect; adequate.
2. valid or binding, as an agreement or document.

effectual

/ ɪˈfɛktjʊəl /

adjective

1. capable of or successful in producing an intended result; effective
2. (of documents, agreements, etc) having legal force

Derived Forms

• efˌfectuˈality, noun

Other Words From

• ef·fectu·al·ly adverb
• ef·fectu·al·ness ef·fectu·ali·ty noun
• preef·fectu·al adjective
• preef·fectu·al·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of effectual¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English effectuel (from Middle French ); late Middle English effectual, from Medieval Latin effectuālis, equivalent to Latin effectu-, stem of effectus effect + -ālis -al ¹

Example Sentences

And when at last it is perceived that such pity cannot lead to effectual succor, common sense bids the soul be rid of it.

From The Daily Beast

The purpose of these larger windows is the effectual lighting of the Boardroom, which is of the height of two storeys.

From Project Gutenberg

Each one of them is called by His authoritative command, as well as by the effectual influences of his Spirit.

From Project Gutenberg

Was it that circumstances no longer called for as stern and as effectual remedies as before?

From Project Gutenberg

But in the day of effectual calling, a complete change is produced upon the moral tendencies of the soul.

From Project Gutenberg

The prayer, though short, was effectual; for both went back to their play with happy faces, and they had no more trouble that day.

From Project Gutenberg

When To Use

What are other ways to say effectual?

Something effectual produces or is capable of producing an intended effect. But effectual isn’t quite the same as efficacious, effective, or efficient! Find out why on Thesaurus.com.