Definition of "referee"

(sports) An umpire or judge; an official who makes sure the rules are followed during a game.  examples

A person who settles a dispute.  examples

(UK) A person who writes a letter of reference or provides a reference by phone call for someone. US English: reference.  examples

An expert who judges the manuscript of an article or book to decide if it should be published.  examples

To act as a referee.  examples