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conciliator
/kənˈsɪliˌeɪtər/
peacemaker
formal
A person who acts as a mediator to resolve disputes or bring about agreement between conflicting parties.
The UN envoy served as a conciliator in the border dispute between the two countries.
The UN representative helped mediate the conflict between the nations.
As a conciliator, she was able to bridge the gap between management and employees during the labor negotiations.
Her role as a mediator facilitated agreement between company leaders and workers.
Often used in legal, diplomatic, or labor contexts where formal resolution is required.
Collocations
conciliator rolethe function of a mediatoract as a conciliatorto mediate or facilitate agreement
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'arbitrator'
While both roles involve resolving disputes, a conciliator focuses on facilitating agreement through discussion and compromise, whereas an arbitrator makes a binding decision after hearing both sides.
Gold Rule
Neutrality is key
A conciliator must remain impartial and avoid taking sides to maintain trust and effectiveness in mediation.
Word Origin
From Latin *conciliator*, meaning 'one who unites,' derived from *conciliare* ('to unite, win over'), from *concilium* ('assembly, council'). The word entered English in the 16th century via Old French *conciliateur*.
Usage Notes
The term is formal and typically used in professional or institutional settings (e.g., diplomacy, labor relations, legal disputes). It implies a neutral, third-party role rather than direct conflict resolution by the parties themselves.
Word Breakdown
conciliat-
from Latin *conciliare* ('to unite')
root-or
suffix indicating a person who performs an action
suffixEnglish Dictionary