mediation

/ˌmiːdiˈeɪʃən/

conflict resolution through negotiation

The couple decided to try mediation instead of going to court.

They chose a neutral third-party to help them resolve their differences peacefully.

Law

formal

A structured negotiation process where a neutral third party helps disputing parties reach a voluntary agreement.

The company and its employees agreed to mediation to settle the labor dispute.

They used a mediator to find a mutually acceptable solution without litigation.

Common in family law, workplace disputes, and civil cases. Not legally binding unless formalized.

technical

A therapeutic technique where a mediator facilitates communication between individuals or groups to resolve emotional conflicts.

The therapist used mediation to help the siblings reconcile after years of estrangement.

The process allowed them to express their feelings in a controlled environment.

Often used in family therapy or community conflict resolution.

Collocations

mediation processthe steps involved in resolving a dispute through mediationmediation agreementa written settlement reached through mediationmediation skillsabilities needed to facilitate conflict resolution

a scheduled meeting for mediation

a neutral person who facilitates mediation

Legal mediation often follows structured procedures, while psychological mediation may be more flexible.

A mediator must remain impartial and not favor either party.

From Latin 'mediatio,' meaning 'intervention,' derived from 'medius' (middle).

In legal contexts, mediation is voluntary and non-binding unless formalized. In psychology, it emphasizes emotional resolution.

medi-

middle

root

-ation

process or state of

suffix

English Dictionary