special agent

noun

1. an investigator in a law enforcement agency.
2. an insurance sales representative.

Word History and Origins

Origin of special agent¹

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

Blood from the victim, asleep at the time and unprepared for the vicious assault, splashed onto the sleeves of the suspect’s lime green windbreaker, an FBI special agent claimed in an affidavit filed in U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

According to the indictment, Routh "did forcibly assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere" with a Secret Service special agent.

From BBC

The court also heard from Baca and another special agent who investigated the case.

From Los Angeles Times

Although the concert is real, the venue is swarming with police and special agents, watching the audience like hawks in the hope of finally catching the fugitive they've been chasing for months.

From BBC

Sanders, a special agent for the bureau, said in an affidavit filed in federal court.

From Los Angeles Times