Langimage
English

agency

|a/gen/cy|

B2

/ˈeɪ.dʒən.si/

service provider

Etymology
Etymology Information

'agency' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'agentia,' where 'agere' meant 'to do or act.'

Historical Evolution

'agentia' transformed into the French word 'agence,' and eventually became the modern English word 'agency' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'the act of doing or acting,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an organization providing a service.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an organization or business that provides a particular service, especially on behalf of other businesses or people.

She works for an advertising agency.

Synonyms

Noun 2

the capacity or state of acting or of exerting power.

The agency of the wind eroded the rocks over time.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39