effect
UK: ɪˈfɛkt | US: ɪˈfɛkt
n. a change or result produced by an action or cause
n. the power to influence or produce a result
vt. to bring about or accomplish something
effect = ef<out> + fect<make/do>
- ef (variant of "ex-") <out>: A Latin prefix meaning "out" or "from," often indicating causation or completion.
- fect (from Latin "facere") <make/do>: The root derives from Latin "facere," meaning "to make" or "to do," forming the core of words like "factory" and "perfect."
Etymology Origin:
The word "effect" entered English via Old French "effect" (modern French "effet"), tracing back to Latin "effectus," the past participle of "efficere" ("to accomplish"). The Latin "efficere" combines "ex-" (out) + "facere" (to make), literally meaning "to work out" or "to bring about." Over time, "effect" evolved to emphasize the visible outcome of an action, distinguishing it from "affect" (to influence).
The new law had an immediate effect on traffic safety.
Her speech was full of sound effects to engage the audience.
The medicine takes time to effect a cure.
The artist used lighting to create a dramatic effect.
His efforts finally effected a change in company policy.