1.sufficient to produce a result;
a man to whom painting was but another and less effectual way of writing dramas or novels or history
2.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
3.exerting or capable of exerting strong physiological or chemical effects;
an effectual vaccine