arbiter
UK: ˈɑːbɪtə | US: ˈɑːrbɪtər
n. a person who has the authority to judge or decide a dispute
n. someone whose opinions or decisions are respected and influential
The word "arbiter" traces back to Latin arbiter, meaning "witness, judge, or umpire." The root arbit- comes from ad- (toward) + baetere (to come or go), implying someone who steps in to mediate. Over time, it evolved into Old French arbitre before entering Middle English as "arbiter," retaining its core meaning of a decisive authority. The suffix -er solidifies its role as an agent noun (one who judges).
The professor acted as an arbiter in the academic dispute.
Fashion designers often serve as arbiters of style.
The treaty designated the UN as the final arbiter of conflicts.
As an arbiter of taste, her reviews influenced restaurant trends.
The court appointed an independent arbiter to resolve the case.