any substance used to slow down neutrons in nuclear reactors
"The engineer adjusted the boron concentration in the moderator to ensure the nuclear reactor maintained a steady chain reaction."
in the Presbyterian church, the officer who presides over a synod or general assembly
"After years of serving as an elder, she was elected moderator to lead the upcoming session of the General Assembly."
someone who presides over a forum or debate
"The event moderator kept the heated political debate focused on the main topic rather than letting it spiral into personal attacks."
someone who mediates disputes and attempts to avoid violence
"During the heated town hall meeting, the moderator stepped in to calm the angry crowd before things escalated into a physical fight."
someone who moderates
"The panel moderator stepped in to keep the debate from turning into a shouting match."
an arbitrator or mediator
"The community moderator stepped in to calm down the arguing neighbors and help them reach a peaceful agreement."
In plain English: A moderator is someone who keeps a discussion on track and makes sure everyone follows the rules.
"The moderator kept the online discussion on topic and prevented any personal attacks."
Usage: A moderator is a person who manages discussions or events to ensure they remain orderly and follow specific rules. You should use this term for neutral facilitators rather than for those who actively change or adjust things.
The word entered English from the Latin moderātor, where it originally meant "one who keeps things in order." It first appeared in Middle English as moderatour before becoming the modern term for a person who regulates or controls something.