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I can't find the right word to describe the object that performs an activity/action.

  • Doer
  • Executor
  • Performer
  • Actor

The term is to be used in an application where you may choose an "object" (from a list), and then retrieve its activities.

So what should I call the "object"?

Context: The "object" may be anyone or anything which is to do certain activities. Think of a worklog where you'd like to log activities that has been done. Given the object type, you'd might have a different set of activities to log.

Object (1. line support member) Activities { Create ticket, Assign ticket, Notify customer, Close ticket}

Object (Purchasing employee) Activities { Receive order, Confirm Order, Ship Order}

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  • Can you provide more context? What are the "objects" and what are they "performing"? Is this a domain-specific application (scientific, sociological) or general use application?
    – Nir Levy
    Oct 23, 2012 at 11:39
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    It's very difficult to know what word to suggest when we have no idea what kind of object you're talking about (a robot, an *.exe program, an animated monster) or what kind of action the action-taker performs (murder, solving math problems, erasing files). In any case, unless you're talking about last wills and testaments or operating a guillotine, executor is not an option. Executive might fit, might not. Enabler and operator are other possibilities. But without a context, we're shooting in the dark.
    – user21497
    Oct 23, 2012 at 11:41
  • Maybe "Controller"?
    – MrWhite
    Oct 23, 2012 at 11:54

3 Answers 3

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One option, which shares its etymology with action, is agent. Both come fundamentally from the Latin agere meaning to do.

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    This would be my choice. If however Agent has another use in this context (which appears to be quite possible) I'd go with Executant.
    – StoneyB on hiatus
    Oct 23, 2012 at 13:53
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Perhaps actuator

One that activates, especially a device responsible for actuating a mechanical device, such as one connected to a computer by a sensor link.

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0

I think we might just stick to Performer

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