arbitrator

noun

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

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.
Phillips and the automaker went back and forth over the vehicle, with the arbitrator settling on a repurchase agreement that Phillips thought was unfair. Liam Rappleye, USA Today, 13 Oct. 2025 Phillips and the automaker went back and forth over the vehicle, with the arbitrator settling on a repurchase agreement that Phillips thought was unfair. Liam Rappleye, Freep.com, 10 Oct. 2025 Chris Cuomo can’t revive his bid to disqualify the arbitrator overseeing his $125 million claim against CNN, a New York appeals court has ruled. Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 8 Oct. 2025 While an arbitrator issues a binding decision, a mediator issues a recommendation that, by itself, does not compel any action from the parties. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 7 Oct. 2025 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

Cite this Entry

“Arbitrator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/arbitrator. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on arbitrator

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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