arbitrator

noun

ar·​bi·​tra·​tor ˈär-bə-ˌtrā-tər 

: one that arbitrates a dispute : arbiter

an impartial arbitrator

Synonyms of arbitrator

• referee
• judge
• 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

An arbitrator, however, on Monday released a ruling that Rozier’s salary, including the amount previously withheld, must be paid directly to the 31-year-old guard. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 4 Feb. 2026

The arbitrator's decision came Monday, Rozier's attorney said. —Chloe Atkins, NBC news, 4 Feb. 2026

Come February, the arbitrators hear arguments from both the player’s camp and management. —Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 2 Feb. 2026

The Court has now referred the case back to the original arbitrator, the Court of Arbitration for Sport. —Caroline Price, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 2026

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

Rhymes for arbitrator

• activator
• actuator
• agitator
• alligator
• allocator
• alternator
• animator
• annotator
• applicator
• aspirator
• aviator
• calculator

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