Definition of agency

The word "agency" has its roots in the Latin word "agens," which means "doer" or "performer." In English, the term "agency" originated in the 14th century and initially referred to a person's ability to act or perform a particular function. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include concepts such as representation, authority, and power. In the 17th century, the term "agency" began to be used in a broader sense, encompassing not only individual actions but also the actions of an organization or institution. Today, the word "agency" is used in a wide range of contexts, including business, law, politics, and communication, to refer to an organization, institution, or individual that has the authority to act on behalf of another or to shape public policy. The word "agency" has also been influenced by other languages, including French and Old French, which brought additional meanings and connotations to the term.