efficiency

[ih-fish-uhn-see]

noun

plural

efficiencies 

1. the state or quality of being efficient, or able to accomplish something with the least waste of time and effort; competency in performance.

2. accomplishment of or ability to accomplish a job with a minimum expenditure of time and effort.

   The assembly line increased industry's efficiency.

3. the ratio of the work done or energy developed by a machine, engine, etc., to the energy supplied to it, usually expressed as a percentage.

4. efficiency apartment.

efficiency

/ ɪˈfɪʃənsɪ /

noun

1. the quality or state of being efficient; competence; effectiveness

2. the ratio of the useful work done by a machine, engine, device, etc, to the energy supplied to it, often expressed as a percentage See also thermal efficiency

efficiency

1. The ratio of the energy delivered (or work done) by a machine to the energy needed (or work required) in operating the machine. The efficiency of any machine is always less than one due to forces such as friction that use up energy unproductively.

2. See also mechanical advantage

3. The ratio of the effective or useful output to the total input in any system.

Other Word Forms

• nonefficiency noun
• superefficiency noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of efficiency¹

First recorded in 1585–95; from Latin efficientia, from efficient- (stem of efficiēns efficient ) + -ia -y ³

Example Sentences

In Kent, a cabinet member for local government efficiency has been created, and the county council's Reform leader has claimed potential savings worth millions have been identified.

From BBC

Tyrod Taylor provides stability and efficiency for New York’s offense, and the Jets’ defense is playing with purpose.

From Los Angeles Times

But Stafford’s ball placement and efficiency fell off against the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field as the Rams converted only three of 10 third downs.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite such concerns, many praise the effort for its efficiency.

From Los Angeles Times

In the meantime, Lancashire County Council has set up its own efficiency review, with council officers going line-by-line through the budget to find savings.

From BBC

Related Words

• ability 
• adaptability 
• capability 
• competence 
• energy 
• expertise 
• performance 
• productivity 
• readiness 
• skill 
• talent