Ar″bi‐ter (�), n. [L. arbiter; ar- (for ad) + the root of betere to go; hence properly, one who comes up to look on.] 1. A person appointed, or chosen, by parties to determine a controversy between them.
☞ In modern usage, arbitrator is the technical word.
2. Any person who has the power of judging and determining, or ordaining, without control; one whose power of deciding and governing is not limited.
For Jove is arbiter of both to man.
Cowper.
Syn. — Arbitrator; umpire; director; referee; controller; ruler; governor.