arbitrator

noun

ar·​bi·​tra·​tor ˈär-bə-ˌtrā-tər 

: one that arbitrates a dispute : arbiter

an impartial arbitrator

Synonyms

• adjudicator
• arbiter
• judge
• referee
• umpire

Examples of arbitrator in a Sentence

Both sides agreed to accept a decision by an impartial arbitrator.

the couple finally agreed to let the salesclerk be the final arbitrator and tell them which shirt looked best

Recent Examples on the Web

Alligator’s reverence for the trappings and cadences of ’90s rap plays well with the kind of arbitrators who’ve put all three of Nas’s King’s Disease albums in the running for trophies. —Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 10 Dec. 2024

One argument could be that the arbitrators exceeded their contractual authority. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 4 Nov. 2024

In summary, the Arbitration Agreement is valid and delegates the threshold question of the scope of the arbitration to the arbitrator. —Ars Technica, 30 Sep. 2024

If the enforcement agency takes action against an athlete, that athlete or the school can appeal to an independent arbitrator. —Justin Williams, The Athletic, 1 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Medieval Latin arbitrātor "umpire," from Latin arbitrārī "to consider, judge, arbitrate" + -tor, agent suffix

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

arbitrator

noun

ar·​bi·​tra·​tor ˈär-bə-ˌtrāt-ər 

: a person chosen to settle differences in a disagreement

Legal Definition

arbitrator

noun

ar·​bi·​tra·​tor ˈär-bə-ˌtrā-tər 

: an impartial person or group that is given the power by disputing parties to resolve their dispute compare mediator