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
- They worked with a travel agent to plan their vacation.
- <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
agent
noun \ˈā-jənt\ (Medical Dictionary)Medical Definition of AGENT
1
: something that produces or is capable of producing an effect
2
: a chemically, physically, or biologically active principle—see oxidizing agent, reducing agent
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