1. (a.) Advantageous; suitable to a purpose, especially to one's own benefit; hastening or forward; hence, tending to further or promote a proposed object; fit or proper under the circumstances; conducive to self-interest; desirable; advisable; -- sometimes contradistinguished from right.

2. (a.) Quick; expeditious.

3. (n.) That which serves to promote or advance; suitable means to accomplish an end.

4. (n.) Means devised in an exigency; shift.