efficiency
noun
ef·fi·cien·cy
i-ˈfi-shən-sē 
plural efficiencies
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
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
For example, Siemens has applied AI procurement tools to streamline supplier management, achieving cost efficiencies while adhering to sustainability mandates.
—
John Bruno, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025
Fewer miles driven in an EV also challenges the economic efficiency of the billions Washington spends annually to subsidize their purchase.
—Ashley Nunes, Chicago Tribune, 2 June 2025
With the federal hiring freeze lifting in mid-July, the Trump administration has rolled out a controversial federal hiring plan that critics warn will politicize and likely slow down the process rather than increase government efficiency.
—ArsTechnica, 2 June 2025
Panthers receivers coach Rob Moore believes critics underestimate McMillan’s efficiency as an athlete.
—Joseph Person, New York Times, 2 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for efficiency
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John Bruno, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025
Fewer miles driven in an EV also challenges the economic efficiency of the billions Washington spends annually to subsidize their purchase.
—Ashley Nunes, Chicago Tribune, 2 June 2025
With the federal hiring freeze lifting in mid-July, the Trump administration has rolled out a controversial federal hiring plan that critics warn will politicize and likely slow down the process rather than increase government efficiency.
—ArsTechnica, 2 June 2025
Panthers receivers coach Rob Moore believes critics underestimate McMillan’s efficiency as an athlete.
—Joseph Person, New York Times, 2 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for efficiency
Cite this Entry
“Efficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/efficiency. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
efficiency
noun
ef·fi·cien·cy
i-ˈfish-ən-sē
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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