efficiency

noun

ef·​fi·​cien·​cy i-ˈfi-shən-sē How to pronounce efficiency (audio)
plural efficiencies
Synonyms of efficiency
1
: the quality or degree of being efficient
2
a
: efficient operation
b(1)
: effective operation as measured by a comparison of production with cost (as in energy, time, and money)
(2)
: the ratio of the useful energy delivered by a dynamic system to the energy supplied to it
3

Examples of efficiency in a Sentence

Because of her efficiency, we got all the work done in a few hours. The factory was operating at peak efficiency. A furnace with 80 percent fuel efficiency wastes 20 percent of its fuel. The company is trying to lower costs and improve efficiencies.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On the Tirranna, the single-wing setup aims to deliver a fuel efficiency improvement of roughly 10%. Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 3 July 2026 The efficiency comes from the engine mechanics itself – not a higher octane level. David Goldman, CNN Money, 3 July 2026 As competitors down dogs for ten straight minutes with a ravenous efficiency that feels worlds apart from snacking on a frank at the ballpark, eating escalates into an élite physical spectacle nearing performance art. Sheldon Pearce, New Yorker, 3 July 2026 That meant the design had to favor stability and efficiency, almost like a giant paper glider. New Atlas, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for efficiency

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin efficientia, from efficient-, efficiens "producing or giving rise to something, immediate (of a cause), efficient" + -ia -y entry 2

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of efficiency was in 1633

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Efficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/efficiency. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

efficiency

noun
ef·​fi·​cien·​cy i-ˈfish-ən-sē How to pronounce efficiency (audio)
plural efficiencies
1
: the quality or degree of being efficient
2
: efficient operation
3
: the ratio of the useful energy delivered by a machine to the energy supplied to it

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