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referee

/ˌɹɛf.əˈɹiː/ · re·fe·ree
noun
  1. An umpire or judge; an official who makes sure the rules are followed during a game. The referee kicked Jim out of the game for fighting.
  2. A person who settles a dispute. The referee helped the couple resolve their disagreement.
  3. A person who writes a letter of reference or provides a reference by phone call for someone. Your application, along with letters from three referees, should be received by January 31.
verb
  1. To act as a referee. He has to referee three hockey games this weekend.
Did you know? The term 'referee' is often associated with sports, but it has a broader application in everyday life, including business and social contexts.
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 2 lookups Added Jul 27, 2026