dommeren

Dommeren is the definite singular form of the noun meaning “the judge” or “the referee” in Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish. The base form dommer (Danish/Norwegian) or domare (Swedish) refers to a person who has authority to decide cases in law or to enforce rules in sport. The term is used across contexts, with the same word adapting to the domain in which the official operates.

Etymology and sense: Dommeren originates from the root associated with judgment or decision-making, tracing back to Old Norse dómr. Over time, it became the standard term for a person who issues judgments in court or makes rulings on sports rules. The definite form signals a specific, identifiable official, as opposed to a general reference to any judge or referee.

Usage and context: In legal discussions, dommeren denotes the judge presiding over a case. In sports reporting or commentary, it designates the referee who enforces rules and makes decisions during a match. The word is common in everyday language as well, where the context—legal or sporting—clarifies the intended meaning. The same form appears in the Scandinavian languages with minor differences in spelling across Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish.

Related terms: The indefinite forms dommer (Norwegian/Danish) or domare (Swedish) refer to judges or referees in general, while dommeren specifies a particular official. The term can appear in various formal and informal contexts, from court procedures to athletic events.