noun
factor
An agent who conducts business on another's behalf.
The factor sells the farmer's cotton and collects a commission.
Etymology
Latin factor means a maker or doer. In business, the title came to designate someone who acts for another person in carrying out transactions.
More examples
- A local factor handles sales for the overseas merchant.
- The mill hires a factor to negotiate with buyers.
- Several factors represent growers at the regional cotton market.
Forms
factor · factors