inefficient

adjective

in·​ef·​fi·​cient ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shənt How to pronounce inefficient (audio)
Synonyms of inefficientnext
: not efficient: such as
a
: wasteful of time or energy
inefficient operating procedures
b
: incapable, incompetent
an inefficient worker
c
: not producing the effect intended or desired
used inefficient measures
inefficient noun
inefficiently adverb

Synonyms of inefficient

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Examples of inefficient in a Sentence

The delivery system was very inefficient. an inefficient use of fuel
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cameron was inefficient from the start. — Kansas City Star, 25 June 2026 Clicking on a task opens it up in a dedicated page, which is a remarkably inefficient use of space. — Ruben Circelli, PC Magazine, 30 June 2026 By that logic, if a route is long and inefficient, platforms should simply raise drivers’ pay and pass on the fare hike to the passenger. — Christopher S. Tang, The Conversation, 8 July 2026 However, opinions on the continent on it still differ, with some calling it inefficient and perpetuating rather than aiding the climate crisis. — Katharina Buchholz, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for inefficient

Word History

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inefficient was in 1750

Rhymes for inefficient

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Browse Nearby Words

inefficiency
inefficient
in effigy
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Cite this Entry

“Inefficient.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inefficient. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

inefficient

adjective
in·​ef·​fi·​cient ˌin-ə-ˈfish-ənt How to pronounce inefficient (audio)
1
: not producing the effect expected or desired
inefficient regulations
2
: wasteful of time or energy
inefficient procedures
especially : accomplishing little relative to the time spent or effort expended
an inefficient worker
inefficiently adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on inefficient

Nglish: Translation of inefficient for Spanish Speakers

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