arbitrator

noun

ar·​bi·​tra·​tor ˈär-bə-ˌtrā-tər How to pronounce arbitrator (audio)
Synonyms of arbitratornext
: one that arbitrates a dispute : arbiter
an impartial arbitrator

Synonyms of arbitrator

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The arbitrators would hold hearings and weigh evidence related to employment elements such as wages and hours. — Jon Regardie, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026 The Federal Arbitration Act commands arbitration awards receive high deference and can only be vacated in limited circumstances, such as when the arbitrator engaged in fraud. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 26 Oct. 2026 The agent can release it only when both the buyer and the seller agree in writing, or when a court or arbitrator orders it. — Gary Singer, Sun Sentinel, 22 Oct. 2026 That process has become so lucrative for the arbitrators that decide winners and losers that some of them now have profit margins that would make tech giants blush, my colleague Tara Bannow reports in a new story. — Bob Herman, STAT, 19 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for arbitrator

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of arbitrator was in the 15th century

Rhymes for arbitrator

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Browse Nearby Words

arbitrative
arbitrator
arbitrement
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Cite this Entry

“Arbitrator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/arbitrator. Accessed 31 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

arbitrator

noun
ar·​bi·​tra·​tor ˈär-bə-ˌtrāt-ər How to pronounce arbitrator (audio)
: a person chosen to settle differences in a disagreement

Legal Definition

arbitrator

noun
ar·​bi·​tra·​tor ˈär-bə-ˌtrā-tər How to pronounce arbitrator (audio)
: an impartial person or group that is given the power by disputing parties to resolve their dispute compare mediator
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