umpire
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈʌm.paɪər/
KK: /ˈʌmˌpaɪər/
intransitive verb
Definition
To act as a referee in a game or sport, making decisions about the rules and fairness of the play.
Example
During the match, he had to umpire to ensure the rules were followed.
Tense Forms
Past: umpired
Past Participle: umpired
Conversation
Did you see how the referee had to umpire that last game?
Yeah, it was intense! Some players were really arguing.
I think it’s tough to umpire when emotions run high like that.
Definitely! They have to stay calm and make the right calls.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
judge
decide
rule
Antonyms
ignore
disregard
overlook
noun
Definition
A person who makes decisions and enforces rules during a game, especially in sports like baseball.
Example
The umpire called the player out at home plate after a close play.
Conversation
Did you see the game last night?
Yeah, the umpire made some tough calls.
I know, right? Some of those decisions were questionable.
transitive verb
Definition
To act as a referee or judge in a game or competition, making decisions about the rules and fairness of the play.
Example
The official will umpire the baseball game this afternoon.
Tense Forms
Past: umpired
Past Participle: umpired
Conversation
Did you see the game last night?
Yeah, it was intense! The umpire made some controversial calls.
I know, right? I think he really umpired that match poorly.
Root Explanation
Umpire → The word originates from Old French 'nompere', which means 'not a peer' or 'not equal'. It refers to a person who is not a participant in a game but is instead an impartial judge or referee.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is 'not equal' ('nompere') to the players, acting as a fair judge in a game — that’s what an umpire does.
Visually Confused Words
empire
unumpired
mire