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Definition of arbitration
arbitration
/ˌɑːr.bɪˈtreɪ.ʃən/
ar · bi · tra · tion
Plural:arbitrations
•Adjective:arbitrational
arbitration Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
10
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
4
arbitration Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
A formal process of resolving a dispute outside the courts, in which an impartial third party or panel hears the evidence and makes a legally binding decision.
Example
"The labor union and management agreed to submit their contract dispute to binding arbitration."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for arbitration Antonyms
View all antonyms for arbitrationWord Nuance & Usage
In legal and business contexts, 'arbitration' differs from 'mediation' in that an arbitrator renders a binding decision, whereas a mediator only facilitates negotiation between the parties.
• Rhymes for arbitration
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from Middle French 'arbitration', from Latin 'arbitrationem' (judgment, will), a noun of action from 'arbitrari' (to be of an opinion, give a decision), derived from 'arbiter' (witness, judge, umpire).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Arbitration. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/arbitration