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ef·fec·tive

(ĭ-fĕktĭv)

adj.

a. Having an intended or expected effect.

b. Producing a strong impression or response; striking: gave an effective performance as Othello.

2. Operative; in effect: The law is effective immediately.

3. Existing in fact; actual: a decline in the effective demand.

4. Prepared for use or action, especially in combat.

A soldier or a piece of military equipment that is ready for combat.

ef·fective·ness, ef′fec·tivi·ty n.

Synonyms: effective, effectual, efficacious
These adjectives mean producing or capable of producing a desired effect: an effective reprimand; an effectual complaint; an efficacious remedy.

Indo-European & Semitic Roots Appendices

Thousands of entries in the dictionary include etymologies that trace their origins back to reconstructed proto-languages. You can obtain more information about these forms in our online appendices:

Indo-European Roots

Semitic Roots

The Indo-European appendix covers nearly half of the Indo-European roots that have left their mark on English words. A more complete treatment of Indo-European roots and the English words derived from them is available in our Dictionary of Indo-European Roots.

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