Noah Webster
Expedient
EXPE'DIENT, adjective [Latin expediens; expedio, to hasten; Eng. speed.]
1. Literally, hastening; urging forward. Hence, tending to promote the object proposed; fit or suitable for the purpose; proper under the circumstances. Many things may be lawful, which are not expedient
2. Useful; profitable.
3. Quick; expeditious. [Not used.]
EXPE'DIENT, noun That which serves to promote or advance; any means which may be employed to accomplish an end. Let every expedient be employed to effect an important object, nor let exertions cease till all expedients fail of producing the effect.
1. Shift; means devised or employed in an exigency.