10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary ( 1332 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction ( 1612 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues ( 1640 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power ( 1337 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary ( 1546 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something ( 1598 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye ( 1471 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer ( 1562 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary agent NOUN1 & ADJECTIVE Etymology Summary Of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons:Frenchagent; Latinagent-, agē ns, agere. < (i) Middle Frenchagent (Frenchagent) (noun) person acting on behalf of another, representative, emissary (1332 in an isolated attestation, subsequently (apparently after Italian) from 1578), person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (c1370, originally and frequently in philosophical contexts), substance that brings about a chemical effect or causes a chemical reaction (1612 (in the passage translated in quot. 1624 at sense A.4) or earlier; rare before early 19th cent.), person who intrigues (1640), (adjective) that acts, that exerts power (1337; c1450 in grammar; second half of the 15th cent. in cause agent (compare quot. 1535 at sense B)), and its etymon (ii) classical Latinagent-, agē ns acting, active, (masculine noun) pleader, advocate, in post-classical Latin also representative, ofchurch (6th cent.), (neuter noun) (in philosophy) instrumentality, cause (from 8th cent. in British sources; also in continental sources), uses as adjective and noun of present participle of agere to act, do (see actv.). With sense A.1a and corresponding adjectival use compare earlier patientn. and patientadj. Notes Parallels in other European languages. Compare Catalanagent, adjective and noun (14th cent.), Spanishagente (late 14th cent. as noun, early 15th cent. as adjective), Portugueseagente, adjective and noun (15th cent.), Italianagente (a1294 as adjective, a1328 as noun). Compare also Dutchagent (noun) of(masculine noun) representative, emissary (1546), spy (18th cent., now the usual sense), Agens (neuter noun) person who or thing which acts upon someone or something (1598). NOUN Accept All Cookie Settings https://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 1/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1.a. A person who or thing which acts upon someone or something; one who or that which a1500– exerts power; the doer of an action. Sometimes contrasted with the patient (instrument, etc.) undergoing the action. Cf. actorn. 3a. Earliest in Alchemy: a force capable of acting upon matter, an active principle. Now chiesociological contexts. a1500 The fyrst [kind of combining] is callyd by phylosophers dyptatyve be-twyxte ye agent & ye (1471) pacyent. G. Ripley, Compend of Alchemy (Ashmole MS.) l. 718 a1555 The forgeuenes of oure sinnes..is onely gods worke & we nothing els but patientes & not agentes. J. Bradford, Godlie Medit. Lordes Prayer (1562) sig. Q.ii 1614 For he maketh foure originals, whereof three are agents, and the last passiue and materiall. W. Raleigh, History of Worldi.i. i. §6. 6 1646 Nor are we to be meer instruments moved by the will of those in authority..but are morall Agents. S. Bolton, Arraignment of Errour 295 1788 He that is not free is not an agent, but a patient. J. Wesley, Serm. Several Occasionsvol. V. 177 1809 Agent and Patient, when the same person is the doer of a thing, and the party to whom done: as where a woman endows herself of the best part of her husband's possessions. T. E. Tomlins, Jacob's Law-dictionary 1870 In conformity with this view, the distinction between agent and patient, between something which acts and some other thing which is acted upon, is formally abolished. F. C. Bowen, Logic xii. 401 1909 We are..conversant with the fact in human ais an intelligent agent. Popular Science Monthly April 379 1989 It is silly to berate the hurricane for irresponsibility... It..cannot be a true agent; it cannot author or own an action. C. T. Sistare, Responsibility & Criminal Liability ii. iv. 15 2010 It is only an exercise of power if the agent gets the subject to do something whether or not the subject wants to do it. J. R. Searle, Making Social World vii. 152 cause of some process or change. Frequently with for, in, of. Sometimes dihttps://www.oed.com/dictionary/agent_n1?tab=meaning_and_use#8694696 2/21 10/9/24, 7:26 PM agent, n.¹ & adj. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary 1571 Faieth is produced and brought foorth by the grace of God, as chiefe agent and worker thereof. W. Fulke, Confut. Popishe Libelle (new edition) f. 108v 1592 I stepped back againe into the garden,..leauing them still agents of these vnkind villanies. R. Greene, Philomela sig. F4v 1645 The distans. A. Ross, Philosophicall Touch-stone 35 1666 Whether or no the Shape can by Physical Agents be alter'd.., yet mentally both..can be done. R. Boyle, Origine of Formes & Qualities 9 1699 When the Samians invaded Zancle, a..great Agent in that aR. Bentley, Dissertation upon Epistles of Phalaris (new edition) 155 1719 I was still to be the wilful Agent of all my own Miseries. D. Defoe, Life Robinson Crusoe 43 1722 Nor can I think, that any body has such an