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

Aily’s system not only provides insights but enables continuous monitoring and real-time action, with AI supporting decision-makers during critical moments. —Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 13 Apr. 2026

Equally important, the Draft Environmental Impact Report fails to provide basic comparative data that decision-makers and the public need to evaluate tradeoffs. —Charles Rilli, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Apr. 2026

The scientists say their detailed map and data could help local decision-makers address overpumping from stressed aquifers, and help researchers estimate how much water has been depleted. —Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 9 Apr. 2026

Many existing energy experts stationed in the Gulf had to evacuate their embassies, and were unlikely to easily and quickly communicate with decision-makers. —Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 5 Apr. 2026

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