special agent

American  

noun

1. an investigator in a law enforcement agency.

2. an insurance sales representative.

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Etymology

Origin of special agent

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

Former FBI special agent Jeff Kroeger told the BBC: "This is exactly what the Secret Service is trained do to."

From BBC • Apr. 26, 2026

Alex Doran, the acting special agent in charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in San Antonio, said it was too early to know the shooter’s motive.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

FBI special agent Alex Doran said earlier Sunday that a motive for the attack was not known but "there were indicators on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate a potential nexus to terrorism."

From Barron's • Mar. 1, 2026

Rafael Barrows, special agent in charge of the Secret Service’s Miami field office, said no law enforcement agents were harmed in the incident.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 22, 2026

Tom was a dedicated family man, but like his father he was attracted to the darkness, and in 1917 he took the oath to become a special agent of the Bureau of Investigation.

From "Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Grann