intermediary

[in-ter-mee-dee-er-ee]

noun

plural

intermediaries 

1. an intermediate agent or agency; a go-between or mediator.

   Synonyms: umpire, arbitrator

2. a medium or means.

3. an intermediate form or stage.

adjective

1. being between; intermediate.

2. acting between persons, parties, etc.; serving as an intermediate agent or agency.

   an intermediary power.

intermediary

/ ˌɪntəˈmiːdɪərɪ /

noun

1. a person who acts as a mediator or agent between parties

2. something that acts as a medium or means

3. an intermediate state or period

adjective

1. acting as an intermediary

2. situated, acting, or coming between; intermediate

Word History and Origins

Origin of intermediary¹

1785–95; < Late Latin intermedi ( um ) intervening place + -ary; intermediate ¹

Example Sentences

Using messenger RNA as an intermediary in their actions, the vaccines instruct the body how to manufacture parts of a pathogen that its immune system can recognize and fight.

From Los Angeles Times

Although some people carry cash with them, many others arrange to pay the smugglers through bank transfers or via intermediaries in a range of countries including Turkey, Germany, Belgium and the UK.

From BBC

BBC Sport understands that a potential move to the Middle East for the Uruguay international has been explored this summer with intermediaries actively working on trying to broker a deal.

From BBC

In February, prosecutors said Villanueva offered one of the self-identified fighters payments through an intermediary, asking whether it would help pay for resources for ISIS.

From Los Angeles Times

BBC Sport has been told talks have taken place involving intermediaries and there is a belief a deal can be reached.

From BBC

Related Words

• broker 
• emissary 
• go-between 
• mediator 
• negotiator www.thesaurus.com