effective
UK[ɪˈfɛktɪv]US[ɪˈfɛktɪv]
adj
producing the result that is wanted or intended; producing a successful result
adj
(of a law, rule, etc.) in use, in operation
adj
(only before noun) real or actual, though not official or explicit
Morpheme Breakdown
ef
fect
ive
ef
out, thoroughly
fect
make, do
ive
adjective suffix
Etymology
The word 'effective' has its origins in the Latin verb 'efficere', which is a compound of 'ex-' (meaning 'out') and 'facere' (meaning 'to make' or 'to do'). The literal sense of 'efficere' was 'to work out, accomplish, or bring about'. This Latin past participle 'effectus' (meaning 'accomplished' or 'executed') passed into Late Latin as 'effectivus', carrying the sense of 'creative' or 'productive'. Entering English via French in the 14th century, 'effective' initially described something with the power to produce a desired effect. Over time, the core logic of the morphemes—'thoroughly making' or 'bringing out'—evolved into the modern abstract meanings centered on real-world results, operational status, and practical success.
Analysis
Structure: ef (out, thoroughly) + fect (make, do) + ive (adjective suffix)
- ef: A Latin prefix, a form of 'ex-' meaning 'out' or 'thoroughly'.
- fect: A Latin root from 'facere', meaning 'to make' or 'to do'. The spelling 'fect' is a past participial stem.
- ive: A Latin-derived suffix used to form adjectives meaning 'having the nature or quality of'.
Examples
The new drug has proven highly effective against the virus.
The new tax regulations will become effective next month.
She is the effective leader of the project, though not the official manager.