PoliticsAugust 22, 2026
arbiter
AR-bih-ter
Definition
An independent person or entity authorized to settle a dispute or decide on a matter of principle.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'arbiter,' meaning a witness, judge, or person present, which evolved from the components 'ad' (to) and 'baetere' (to come or go).
In the news
The author notes that while they are deferential to higher courts, they believe there must be a legitimate arbiter to maintain law and social order. They argue that the current court ruling fails this role by favoring powerful interests.
Oligarchy bends the second-highest court in the land
Read the full article ↗The Manila Times