umpire

[ uhm-pahyuhr ]

noun

1. a person selected to rule on the plays in a game.

   Synonyms: arbitrator, arbiter, referee

2. one selected to settle disputes about the application of settled rules or usages; a person agreed on by disputing parties to arbitrate their differences.

verb (used with object)

, um·pired, um·pir·ing.

1. to act as umpire in (a game).
2. to decide or settle (a controversy, dispute, or the like) as umpire; arbitrate.

verb (used without object)

, um·pired, um·pir·ing.

1. to act as umpire.

umpire

/ ˈʌmpaɪə /

noun

1. an official who rules on the playing of a game, as in cricket or baseball
2. a person who rules on or judges disputes between contesting parties

verb

1. to act as umpire in (a game, dispute, or controversy)

Derived Forms

• ˈumpireship, noun

Other Words From

• un·umpired adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of umpire¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English umpere, variant of noumpere ( a noumpere taken as an oumpere; adder ¹, apron ), from Old French nomper, nonper “arbiter,” i.e., “one not equal.” See non-, peer ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of umpire¹

C15: by mistaken division from a noumpere, from Old French nomper not one of a pair, from nom-, non- not + per equal, peer ¹

Synonym Study

See judge.

Example Sentences

In certain situations, the referee might rely on a second opinion from the umpire, who is positioned on the other side of the quarterback, said Carey, who noted some of the league’s officiating protocols might have shifted since his retirement.

From Los Angeles Times

Right-field umpire Mark Carlson immediately called fan interference, and Torres was ruled out.

From Los Angeles Times

Robinson slid into the plate as Berra made the tag, but umpire Bill Summers called Robinson safe, Berra immediately turning around to give Summers an earful.

From Los Angeles Times

Britain, who were aggrieved that an umpire's decision went against them on Sunday in the pre-start, protested against New Zealand during a series of close crosses.

From BBC

The hosts' selection committee, including captain Shan Masood, coach Jason Gillespie, former skipper Azhar Ali and ex-international umpire Aleem Dar were engaged in a long and public meeting on the square during Monday’s training session.

From BBC

Related Words

• arbitrator
• judge
• ref
• referee
• ump