effective in WordNet English dictionary

1. producing or capable of producing an intended result or having a striking effect
   "an air-cooled motor was more effective than a witch's broomstick for rapid long-distance transportation"-LewisMumford; "effective teaching methods"; "effective steps toward peace"; "made an effective entrance"; "his complaint proved to be effectual in bringing action"; "an efficacious law"
   effective  effectual  efficacious 
   
2. existing in fact; not theoretical; real
   "a decline in the effective demand"; "confused increased equipment and expenditure with the quantity of effective work done"
   effective 
   
3. able to accomplish a purpose; functioning effectively
   "people who will do nothing unless they get something out of it for themselves are often highly effective persons..."-G.B.Shaw; "effective personnel"; "an efficient secretary"; "the efficient cause of the revolution"
   effective  efficient 
   
4. works well as a means or remedy
   "an effective reprimand"; "a lotion that is effective in cases of prickly heat"
   effective 
   
5. ready for service
   "the fort was held by about 100 effective soldiers"
   effective 
   
6. exerting force or influence
   "the law is effective immediately"; "a warranty good for two years"; "the law is already in effect (or in force)"
   effective  good  in effect  in force