noun
efficiency
ih-FIHSH-uhn-see
noun
1
The quality of using time, energy, or resources well without unnecessary waste.
"The new software improved the factory's efficiency significantly."
"She's known for her efficiency in managing a busy schedule."
2
A small self-contained apartment, typically with one main room.
"They rented an efficiency near campus to save money."
How to Use Efficiency
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishGetting the most result out of the least waste of time, effort, or resources; also American English slang for a tiny one-room apartment.
UK vs US
"Efficiency" meaning a small apartment is chiefly American English; British English would usually say "studio flat."
Easily confused with
Common pairings
energy efficiency
improve efficiency
efficiency apartment
Word Forms
efficiencies plural
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The new software improved the factory's _____ significantly.
Etymology
From Latin efficientia, related to efficient.
Rhymes for efficiency
agency
urgency
potency
decency
regency
currency
tendency
clemency
leniency
frequency
emergency
residency
See all rhymes for efficiency →