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Webster’s Definitions
Noah Webster 1828 American Dictionary of the English
Language
Efficient, adj. 1. causing effects; producing; that causes any thing to be what it
is. The efficient cause is that which produces; the final cause is that for which it is
produced.
Thorough, adj. 1. literally, passing through or to the end; hence, complete;
perfect; as a thorough reformation; thorough work.
Webster’s New School & Office Dictionary 1961
Efficient, adj. producing or causing effects or results; powerful; ready.
Thorough, adj. passing through or to the end; perfect; finished; complete.
Webster’s Dictionary 1975
Efficient, adj. causing effects; producing results; capable; able; effective.
Thorough, adj. complete; absolute.
The New American Webster’s Handy College Dictionary
1995
Efficient, adj. 1. adequate in performance or operation; capable; competent.
Thorough, adj. 1. done completely or perfectly; fully executed. 2. leaving nothing
undone; exhaustive in action or operation.