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