# mediator

/ˈmidiˌeɪtɝ/ (US) · /mˈiːdɪˌeɪtɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mediator
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. a negotiator

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

someone who talks to two people or groups who are arguing to help them find a solution.

For teachers: a person who acts as a neutral intermediary between parties in a dispute to facilitate a settlement or agreement.

- The company hired a mediator to help the manager and the staff resolve their argument.
- The government appointed a professional mediator to oversee the discussions between the union and the airline, hoping to prevent a nationwide strike.

### 2. chemical messenger

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a substance in the body that carries information to a cell.

For teachers: a chemical substance, such as a hormone or neurotransmitter, that transmits information to a targeted cell.

- Scientists are studying how this chemical mediator tells the brain to feel pain.
- The research focused on the role of inflammatory mediators in the body's immune response to chronic infection.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'chemical mediator' or 'inflammatory mediator'.

## Examples

- The mediator helped the couple agree on a fair divorce settlement.
- The union and the management finally agreed to bring in an outside mediator to resolve the contract dispute.
- Acting as a mediator requires an exceptional ability to remain impartial while navigating the intense emotional landscape of two parties who have reached a complete diplomatic impasse.

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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.