effect
1 of 2
noun
ef·fect i-ˈfekt
e-,
ē-,
ə-
plural: effects
1
: something that inevitably follows an antecedent (such as a cause or agent) : result, outcome
the effects of the policy
the health effects of exercise
a cumulative effect
a cause and effect relationship
suffered no ill effects from the treatment
My comment had the effect of ending the conversation.
The pitcher used her slider to good/great effect. [=with a good/great result]
They've complained many times, to little/no effect.
2
a
: a distinctive impression
The color gives the effect of warmth.
b
: the creation of a desired impression
Her tears were purely for effect.
c
: something designed to produce a distinctive or desired impression: such as
(1)
: something that alters an artistic work in order to enhance the illusion of reality or heighten dramatic appeal
—usually used in plural
the play's use of lighting effects
We're grateful that the movie doesn't try … to inflate its simple narrative with grandiose action-movie effects.—Terrence Rafferty
see also sound effects, special effects
(2)
: something that alters a sung, played, or recorded sound in order to produce a desired quality
—usually used in plural
As you arrange your samples, you can add effects like reverb, raise or lower the tempo or even run the sample backward.—N'gai Croal and Walaika Haskins
3
: the quality or state of being operative : operation
The parking ban is no longer in effect.
The law goes into effect next week.
No coastal warnings or watches were put into effect.—Associated Press
The Government intends to pass legislation giving effect to the reforms …—Thomas Coughlan
see also take effect
4
: power to bring about a result : influence
The content itself of television … is therefore less important than its effect …—Current Biography
see also take effect
5
effects plural : movable property : goods
household effects
see also personal effects
6
: an outward sign : appearance
… his sufferings, instead of exciting their compassion, have been celebrated as the visible effects of divine justice.—Edward Gibbon
7
: a goal or purpose : end
Before the bond issue can move ahead, City Council must approve the cooperation agreement. Legislation to that effect was introduced this week.—Mark Belko
I desire simply to be quit of you; and to that effect, I put a boat and complement of men at your disposal.—Robert Louis Stevenson
Is all our travail turn'd to this effect?—Shakespeare