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.
Ar"bi*ter, v. t. To act as arbiter
between. [Obs.]