'arbitrate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'arbiter', where 'arbiter' meant 'judge' or 'one who gives a decision'.

'arbitrate' changed from Old French 'arbitrer' (and Medieval Latin 'arbitrat-') and eventually became the modern English word 'arbitrate'.

Initially, it meant 'to act as an impartial judge', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to settle disputes by arbitration'.