What term is used for a party who appoints another to act as their agent?

The term used for a party who appoints another to act as their agent is "Principal." In the context of agency law, the principal is the individual or entity that grants authority to an agent to act on their behalf. This relationship is foundational in legal and business transactions, as it establishes the rights and responsibilities of both the principal and the agent. The principal has the power to influence the actions of the agent, and the agent must operate within the scope of authority granted by the principal. Understanding this relationship is crucial for effective management and collaboration in various professional contexts.