I. ˈəm-ˌpī(-ə)r noun
Etymology: Middle English oumpere, alteration (from misdivision of a noumpere ) of noumpere, from Anglo-French nounpier, nompere, from nounpier, adjective, single, odd, from non- + per equal, from Latin par
Date: 15th century
1. : one having authority to decide finally a controversy or question between parties: as
a. : one appointed to decide between arbitrators who have disagreed
b. : an impartial third party chosen to arbitrate disputes arising under the terms of a labor agreement
2. : an official in a sport who rules on plays
3. : a military officer who evaluates maneuvers
II. verb
( um·pired ; um·pir·ing )
Date: 1609
transitive verb
: to supervise or decide as umpire
intransitive verb
: to act as umpire