agent

agent

noun \ˈā-jənt\

Definition of AGENT

1

: one that acts or exerts power

2

a : something that produces or is capable of producing an effect : an active or efficient cause b : a chemically, physically, or biologically active principle

3

: a means or instrument by which a guiding intelligence achieves a result

4

: one who is authorized to act for or in the place of another: as a : a representative, emissary, or official of a government <crown agent> <federal agent> b : one engaged in undercover activities (as espionage) : spy <secret agent> c : a business representative (as of an athlete or entertainer) <a theatrical agent>

5

: a computer application designed to automate certain tasks (as gathering information online)

Examples of AGENT

1. They worked with a travel agent to plan their vacation.
2. <the whitening agent in the detergent is chlorine bleach>

Origin of AGENT

Middle English, from Medieval Latin agent-, agens, from Latin, present participle of agere to drive, lead, act, do; akin to Old Norse aka to travel in a vehicle, Greek agein to drive, lead

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to AGENT

Synonyms: agency, instrument, instrumentality, machinery, means, medium, ministry, organ, vehicle

Related Words: determinant, expedient, factor, influence, ingredient, mechanism, tool; weapon; activator, animator, catalyst, driver, energizer, executor, generator, impetus, incentive, inspiration, instigation, instigator, launcher, mover, power, stimulus, trigger; antecedent, cause, occasion, reason; subagency, subagent

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