Central Intelligence Agency

American  

noun

1. CIA.

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Central Intelligence Agency British  

noun

1. See CIA

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Central Intelligence Agency Cultural  

1. An agency of the United States government, responsible for coordinating information-gathering activities outside the United States in the interest of national security. The CIA works with the Department of State and a variety of civilian and military organizations to protect American interests abroad and recommend directions for American foreign policy.

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The operations of the CIA are directed by the National Security Council.

The extreme secrecy of many of the CIA's operations has enhanced its reputation as an organization of espionage and intrigue.

Example Sentences

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Central Intelligence Agency

She asked Pauken if he was spying on China or working for the Central Intelligence Agency, to which he said no.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 5, 2026

In 1961, about 1,400 Cuban exiles trained by the Central Intelligence Agency landed at the Bay of Pigs on Cuba’s southern coast.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 25, 2026

Any criminal charges would come after Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe made an unusual visit to Havana on Thursday.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 16, 2026

More than 170 American aircraft and some 200 troops took part in the operation to rescue the F-15 crew members, Trump said Monday, an effort that included assistance from the Central Intelligence Agency.

From Barron's ● Apr. 6, 2026

Two stern-faced men identified themselves as agents of the Central Intelligence Agency.

From "Fallout: Spies, Superbombs, and the Ultimate Cold War Showdown" by Steve Sheinkin