Mediation

/ˌmiː.diˈeɪ.ʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The process of intervening in a dispute to help the parties reach an agreement.
The mediation between the two companies resulted in a mutually beneficial contract.
The act of mediating or the state of being mediated.
His mediation was crucial in resolving the conflict without escalating tensions.
Intervention by a third party in a negotiation or conflict to aid communication and solution finding.
They called for mediation after their negotiations reached an impasse.
The process through which disputes are settled by an impartial facilitator.
Mediation can often be less costly and time-consuming than going to court.
An intermediary action or process that facilitates resolution or agreement.
Her mediation allowed the family to come together and address their issues openly.

Etymology

From Middle English, from Latin mediatio, from mediari 'to mediate'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

mediation process
The structured process of mediation aimed at resolving conflict.
alternative dispute resolution
A method of resolving disputes outside of the court system, which includes mediation.
mediation session
A meeting during which mediation takes place.

Related Words

mediator
A person who facilitates a mediation process.
mediation agreement
A formal agreement resulting from a successful mediation.

Slang Meanings

Mediating a situation informally.
He acted as the mediator when his friends had a falling out, smoothing things over.