efficiency

From Latin efficientia.

• IPA^(key): /ɪˈfɪʃ.ən.si/, , /ɪˈfɪʃ.ɪn.si/

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efficiency (countable and uncountable, plural efficiencies)

1. The extent to which a resource is used for the intended purpose.

   Antonyms: inefficiency, wastefulness

   1. (engineering, physics) The ratio of useful work to energy expended. Often given the symbol η.

      The efficiency of this loudspeaker is 40%.

   2. The extent to which time is well used for the intended task.

      The efficiency of the planning department is deplorable.

      • 1951 October, H. A. Vallance, “Across Denmark by Lyntog”, in Railway Magazine, page 658:

        Even at the busiest periods, an air of quiet orderliness pervades the hall, and the first impression gained by the traveller is one of efficiency, neatness and cleanliness.

      • 2012 September 7, Phil McNulty, “Moldova 0-5 England”, in BBC Sport‎:

        The display and result must be placed in the context that was it was against a side that looked every bit their Fifa world ranking of 141 - but England completed the job with efficiency to record their biggest away win in 19 years.

2. (dated) The quality of producing an effect or effects.
   • 1594–1597, Richard Hooker, edited by J S, Of the Lawes of Ecclesiastical Politie, , London: Will Stansby , published 1611, →OCLC, (please specify the page):

     The manner of this divine efficiency being far above us.

3. (US) A one-room apartment.

   Synonyms: efficiency apartment, studio apartment, (UK, Ireland) bedsit

   I have an efficiency available June through July.

   fully-furnished efficiencies

• efficiency on Wikipedia.Wikipedia