Agents: meaning, definitions and examples

Individuals involved in secret or specialized missions, often associated with law enforcement or intelligence agencies.

• The FBI agents gathered evidence against the criminal syndicate.
• Secret agents from the intelligence agency attended the covert meeting.

Personnel, often within governmental or military organizations, involved in covert or specialized tasks requiring specific skills.

• The operatives were deployed to the conflict zone for a rescue mission.
• Covert operatives managed to infiltrate the enemy's base.

Individuals who secretly collect information about an enemy or competitor, usually with negative connotations.

• During the Cold War, spies gathered intelligence on opposing nations.
• The company discovered that one of its employees was a spy stealing trade secrets.

Law enforcement personnel or operatives working in disguise to gather information or evidence on illegal activities.

• Undercover agents successfully infiltrated the drug cartel.
• The detective went undercover as a student to bust the school drug ring.

General term for individuals who act on behalf of others, such as in business, sports, or entertainment. The term is broad and not specific to any one field.

• The company's agents traveled worldwide to secure new contracts.
• Sports agents negotiate contracts for their athlete clients.

A real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of Realtors. In the United States, it's a specific title with distinct ethical guidelines.

• She became a licensed realtor after passing the state exam.
• Our realtor was knowledgeable and helped us find a great home quickly.

An intermediary who arranges transactions between buyers and sellers for a commission. Often used in financial and real estate contexts.

• The stock broker advised him to buy shares in the tech company.
• As a real estate broker, she helped us find the perfect house.

Specific to real estate. A person who helps people buy, sell, or rent properties.

• The property agent showed us several apartments in the downtown area.
• If you're looking to sell your house, you should talk to a property agent.