HealthJuly 9, 2026

arbitrator

/ˈɑːrbɪtreɪtər/

Definition

A neutral, independent person officially appointed to settle a dispute or resolve legal matters outside of a formal courtroom setting.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'arbitrator', meaning a judge or witness, which comes from 'arbiter'. It entered English in the 14th century to describe someone empowered to hear and decide a controversy.

In the news

The term is used to describe the author’s professional role in small claims court. It highlights the author’s practical experience in legal decision-making and impartial oversight.

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New York State Bar Association

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