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DictionaryarbitratorNeutral dispute resolver
noun

arbitrator

AR-bi-tray-ter/ˈɑːrbɪtreɪtər/

A neutral person chosen to settle a dispute.

The arbitrator awards the buyer a partial refund for the damaged chair.

A neutral arbitrator settles a buyer–seller dispute over a visibly damaged chair by determining a partial refund.
Etymology
arbitrLatingive a decision
+atorLatinperson who acts

An arbitrator is literally someone who gives a decision. The selected meaning adds a particular role: the disputing parties choose this person to decide the issue between them.

In context

Plainly Legal3:38
An arbitration clause generally redirects that entire process into a private system instead You and the company present your case to a neutral third party an arbitrator
Auto-Renewal, Arbitration, Waivers: The 3 Clauses Hidden in Contracts

More examples

  • Both neighbors agree to let an arbitrator settle their property dispute.
  • The arbitrator listens to both sides before making a decision.
  • The contract requires payment disputes to go before an arbitrator.

Forms

arbitrator · arbitrators

arbitrate verb — To settle disputes as a neutral decision-maker.

arbitration noun — Dispute settlement by a neutral decision-maker.

Similar words

mediator
Helps parties reach agreement rather than imposing a decision.
judge
Has official court authority rather than authority granted by disputants.