2. In or into operation, as in
This law will be in effect in January. Related phrases include
go into effect and
take effect, which mean "become operative," as in
This law goes into effect January 1, or
It takes effect January 1. Similarly,
put into effect means "make operative," as in
When will the judge's ruling be put into effect? [Late 1700s] Also see
in force, def. 2.