Mediative

Mediative is an English adjective used to describe things relating to mediation or occurring through mediation, especially in contexts such as negotiation, diplomacy, or the functioning of mediators. It can also describe processes, phenomena, or states that act as intermediaries between other elements.

The term is cognate with mediate and mediator, and derives from Latin mediat- "in the middle" via the English verb to mediate. In modern usage, many writers prefer meditative (relating to contemplation) for the sense of inward reflection; mediative for intermediary or mediating functions is more common in technical discourse.

In academic disciplines, mediative is used to describe mediating variables or mediating factors in causal models, as well as discourse or mechanisms that facilitate settlement between parties. It is less common as a descriptor of personal or spiritual practice, where meditative is standard.

See also: mediation, mediator, mediate, mediating variables, mediational.