broker
UK: /ˈbrəʊkə/ | US: /ˈbroʊkər/
n. 1. An intermediary who arranges transactions between buyers and sellers.
n. 2. A person licensed to buy and sell securities or other assets.
vt. 1. To negotiate or arrange the terms of a deal.
The word "broker" traces back to medieval trade practices. The Old French broceur referred to a wine retailer who "tapped into" barrels to sell small quantities. Over time, the term expanded to describe any intermediary in transactions. The English suffix "-er" solidified its meaning as an agent noun, reflecting the role of facilitating deals.
The real estate broker helped us find our dream home.
She works as a stockbroker on Wall Street.
He brokered a peace agreement between the two nations.
Online brokers have made investing more accessible.
The art broker negotiated a fair price for the painting.