agenda

[ uh-jen-duh ]

noun

, formally a plural of agendum, but usually used as a singular with plural a·gen·das or a·gen·da.

1. a list, plan, outline, or the like, of things to be done, matters to be acted or voted upon, etc.:

   The chairman says we have a lengthy agenda this afternoon.

agenda

/ əˈdʒɛndə /

noun

1. Also calledagendum functioning as singular a schedule or list of items to be attended to
2. Also calledagendasagendums functioning as plural matters to be attended to, as at a meeting of a committee

Usage Note

Agenda, “things to be done,” is the plural of the Latin gerund agendum and is used today in the sense “a plan or list of matters to be acted upon.” In that sense it is treated as a singular noun; its plural is usually agendas: The agenda is ready for distribution. The agendas of last year's meetings are printed in the official minutes. The singular agendum, meaning “an item on an agenda,” is rare.

Other Words From

• a·genda·less adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of agenda¹

First recorded in 1745–55; from Latin, plural of agendum “that which is to be done,” gerund of agere “to do, drive”; the plural originally carried a collective sense denoting the various items to be transacted

Word History and Origins

Origin of agenda¹

C17: Latin, literally: things to be done, from agere to do

Example Sentences

Gaetz had spent Wednesday in talks with key GOP senators, seeking to reassure them not just over his alleged sexual misconduct but his perceived extreme agenda.

From Salon

It is part of an agenda driven by conservative parental rights groups and politicians who promote charter schools and voucher systems that could weaken public education.

From Los Angeles Times

In response, Google said that with its proposals, the DOJ "chose to push a radical interventionist agenda that would harm Americans and America’s global technology leadership."

From BBC

They described the process as "unjust and excessive" and that the charities watchdog had a "predetermined agenda".

From BBC

That hasn't stopped Republican leaders from painting the victory as a clear sign that their agenda is overwhelmingly popular.

From Salon

Related Words

• calendar
• plan
• program
• schedule
• timetable