mediator

noun

me·​di·​a·​tor ˈmē-dē-ˌā-tər 

1

: one that mediates

especially : one that mediates between parties at variance

2

: a mediating agent in a physical, chemical, or biological process

Synonyms

• broker
• buffer
• conciliator
• go-between
• honest broker
• interceder
• intercessor
• intermediary
• intermediate
• interposer
• middleman
• peacemaker

Examples of mediator in a Sentence

if you two cannot resolve this argument on your own, we'll have to bring in a mediator

Recent Examples on the Web

According to the sociology of group dynamics, a triad is more stable than a dyad because one member can act as a mediator. —Weike Wang, The New Yorker, 17 Aug. 2024

Attitudes towards shark framing, or how sharks are portrayed and discussed in media and public discourse, emerged as a critical mediator between perceptions of sharks and support for conservation efforts. —Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 16 Aug. 2024

Qatar, along with Egypt and the U.S., is a key mediator between Hamas and Israel. —Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 31 July 2024

Optimism is essential for mediators, especially when the negotiating table seems to have been overturned. —David Ignatius, Washington Post, 31 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

mediator

noun

me·​di·​a·​tor ˈmēd-ē-ˌāt-ər 

: one that mediates

mediatory

-ē-ə-ˌtōr-ē

-ˌtȯr-

adjective

Medical Definition

mediator

noun

me·​di·​a·​tor ˈmēd-ē-ˌāt-ər 

: one that mediates

especially : a mediating agent (as an enzyme or hormone) in a chemical or biological process

substance P, a neuropeptide mediator of analgesic stimuli in peripheral sensory nerves

—D. R. Robinson

Legal Definition

mediator

noun

me·​di·​a·​tor ˈmē-dē-ˌā-tər 

: one that works to effect reconciliation, settlement, or compromise between parties at variance compare arbitrator