Meaning & Definition of word "Referee"

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    Referee

    /ˌrɛf.əˈri/

    noun:

    • 1. An official who watches a game or match closely to enforce the rules and arbitrate on matters arising during the game.
      • Example: The referee blew the whistle to signal a foul during the soccer match.
    • 2. A person who is responsible for mediating disputes in various contexts, such as in formal competitions or appeals.
      • Example: The referee in the tournament made a crucial decision that affected the outcome of the game.
    • 3. A person who oversees the rules and conduct of a competition, including issuing penalties.
      • Example: The referee issued a yellow card to the player for unsportsmanlike behavior.

    verb:

    • 1. To act as a referee in a game or contest.
      • Example: She was asked to referee the local basketball game this weekend.
    • 2. To adjudicate or mediate in a dispute or argument.
      • Example: The professor agreed to referee the debate between the two students.

    Etymology

    Middle English: from the verb 'refer' with the suffix '-ee' indicating a person who is referred to.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    referee's decision:

    The final judgment made by the referee in a game.

    referee's call:

    The ruling made by the referee regarding an incident in the game.

    referee's report:

    A formal statement made by the referee detailing incidents that occurred during the match.

    Related Words

    umpire:

    An official who makes decisions in games such as baseball and tennis.

    judge:

    A person who presides over a court of law and makes legal decisions.

    arbiter:

    A person empowered to decide or adjudicate in a dispute.

    Slang Meanings of referee

    Meaning: Zebra

    Example Sentence: The players yelled at the zebra for missing the call.

    Meaning: Ref

    Example Sentence: The ref needs to be more consistent with his calls.