# agent swarm

CEFR C2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/agent-swarm
Updated: 2026-10-11

## Definition

a group of many small computer programs or robots that work together to solve a big problem. Instead of one smart leader, the whole group follows simple rules to get the job done.

For teachers: a collective system of autonomous software entities or robotic units that interact locally with one another and their environment to achieve global goals. This approach relies on decentralised control and self-organisation, often inspired by the collective behaviour of social insects like ants or bees.

## Examples

- The agent swarm worked together to map the entire building.
- Researchers deployed an agent swarm to monitor ocean temperatures, allowing hundreds of small sensors to coordinate without a central controller.
- By leveraging the principles of emergent intelligence, the agent swarm demonstrated a robust ability to navigate complex terrain, maintaining functional coherence even when individual units suffered mechanical failure.

## Synonyms

hive

## Antonyms

monolith

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the fields of artificial intelligence, robotics, and computer science.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.