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The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 (gcide)

agency \a"gen*cy\ ([=a]"jen*s[y^]), n.; pl. {Agencies}
([=a]"jen*s[i^]z). [agentia, fr. L. agens, agentis: cf. F.
agence. See {Agent}.]
1. The faculty of acting or of exerting power; the state of
being in action; action; instrumentality.
[1913 Webster]

The superintendence and agency of Providence in the
natural world. --Woodward.
[1913 Webster]

2. The office of an agent, or factor; the relation between a
principal and his agent; business of one intrusted with
the concerns of another.
[1913 Webster]

3. The place of business of an agent.
[1913 Webster]

4. An organization or business that provides some service,
primarily for other organizations; as, an advertising
agency.
[PJC]

5. An administrative division of a government; as, a state
welfare agency; a motor vehicle agency; the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA); the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA).
[PJC]

Syn: Action; operation; efficiency; management.
[1913 Webster]