effective meaning and definition

EFFECTIVE adjective

Definition of effective (adjective)

1. producing or capable of producing an intended result or having a striking effect
   • "an air-cooled motor was more effective than a witch's broomstick for rapid long-distance transportation"-LewisMumford; "effective teaching methods"; "effective steps toward peace"; "made an effective entrance"; "his complaint proved to be effectual in bringing action"; "an efficacious law"
   • synonyms: effectual, efficacious
   • antonym: ineffective
2. able to accomplish a purpose; functioning effectively
   • "people who will do nothing unless they get something out of it for themselves are often highly effective persons..."-G.B.Shaw; "effective personnel"; "an efficient secretary"; "the efficient cause of the revolution"
   • synonyms: efficient
3. works well as a means or remedy
   • "an effective reprimand"; "a lotion that is effective in cases of prickly heat"
4. exerting force or influence
   • "the law is effective immediately"; "a warranty good for two years"; "the law is already in effect (or in force)"
   • synonyms: good, in effect, in force
5. existing in fact; not theoretical; real
   • "a decline in the effective demand"; "confused increased equipment and expenditure with the quantity of effective work done"
6. ready for service
   • "the fort was held by about 100 effective soldiers"