decision-maker

noun

de·​ci·​sion-mak·​er di-ˈsi-zhən-ˌmā-kər 

variants or less commonly decision maker

plural decision-makers also decision makers

: someone who is known or primarily responsible for making decisions

a good decision-maker

one of the company's key/top decision makers

However, this does not permit corrections personnel or a warden to automatically assume the role of the patient's medical decision-maker.

—Erik Larsen and Katherine Drabiak

Examples of decision-maker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Leaders who embraced sleep, rest, time outdoors, relationship-building, and stress-reducing practices emerged as more present decision-makers—supporting their teams with deeper engagement, respect, and human connection. —C200, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025

In other cases where the patients cannot express their own wishes, families are designated the medical decision-makers. —Katherine Drabiak, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 June 2025

But ultimately, owner James Dolan is the final decision-maker. —Matt Levine, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 June 2025

As the team’s key decision-makers gather this week for pro scouting meetings, determining how things end with Marner and how to begin next season without him should be at the top of the agenda. —Chris Johnston, New York Times, 30 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for decision-maker

• policymaker
• automaker
• boilermaker
• cabinetmaker
• coffeemaker
• troublemaker
• undertaker
• blackacre
• caretaker
• clockmaker
• dressmaker
• filmmaker