An official who watches a game or match closely to ensure that the rules are adhered to and to arbitrate on matters arising from the play. The referee blew the whistle to signal the end of the match.
A person who is willing to testify to someone's character or abilities, often in a job application context. She listed her former manager as a referee on her job application.
A person who reviews a paper or article for a journal to ensure it meets the necessary standards before publication. The journal editor sent the manuscript to a referee for peer review.
A person appointed by a court to investigate facts, conduct hearings, or make recommendations in a legal proceeding. The dispute over property boundaries was resolved after the court-appointed referee submitted her report.