# arbiter

/ˈɑɹbɪtɝ/ (US) · /ˈɑːbɪtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/arbiter
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a person or thing that makes a final decision in a disagreement. In electronics, it is a device that chooses the best signal from two or more sources.

For teachers: a person or entity authorized to settle disputes; in electronics, a device that selects the highest amplitude signal from multiple inputs.

## Examples

- The arbiter decides which signal to use when there is a conflict.
- In a high-speed digital circuit, the arbiter ensures that only one device can access the shared bus at a time.
- The arbiter acts as a critical component in the arbitration process, resolving contention between competing signals by selecting the one with the highest priority or the strongest amplitude.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.