adjective
- producing or capable of producing an intended effect; adequate.
- valid or binding, as an agreement or document.
adverb
- with the intended effect; thoroughly
- to all practical purposes; in effect
adjective
- capable of or successful in producing an intended result; effective
- (of documents, agreements, etc) having legal force
late 14c., Old French effectuel, from Late Latin effectualis, from Latin effectus “accomplishment, performance” (see effect (n.)). Used properly of actions (not agents) and with a sense “having the effect aimed at.” Related: Effectually; effectuality.