How would you call someone that connects two people together?

Question

Is there an English term to describe someone that acts as a "mediator" between two people, i.e someone that connects two people together?

I think you would get the best answer if you provided an example of the usage you're thinking of so as to give context. e.g. "The two lovers were originally brought together by a mediator" — Paul, Aug 13 '13 at 10:19
Generally mediator is related to resolving a conflict or misunderstanding. More context is needed. — Jeffrey Kemp, Apr 29 '14 at 07:20
Hi, every so often I go through posts which have "How do you call....?" or "How are ______ called?" in their questions or titles. See the discussion in this post: “How do we call (something) in English?” Would you mind editing your title to “What* would you call someone...?”* Thanks! — Mari-Lou A, May 04 '16 at 22:28

score 7 · Accepted Answer · answered Aug 13 '13 at 06:22

7

There are several words that may be suitable, depending on the context: go-between, intermediary, agent, medium, broker, factor, dealer, liaison, middleman.

answered Aug 13 '13 at 06:22

Barrie England

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Can I use broker for someone who connects two unknown people together (and therefore become friends)? – Tom Aug 13 '13 at 06:25
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@Tom Do you mean a matchmaker, perhaps? – user867 Aug 13 '13 at 07:11
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No, Tom, not for that. In that case, I'm not sure there is a single word. A matchmaker is someone who brings two people together, usually for the purpose of matrimony, and perhaps sometimes even for money. – Barrie England Aug 13 '13 at 07:34
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In other situations, one might still use the word matchmaker, but perhaps in scare-quotes, or with enough context, to show a non-standard (but fairly clear) usage: 'She's good at bringing together people she thinks will get on well with each other - quite the matchmaker!' – Edwin Ashworth Aug 13 '13 at 07:46
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I second Barrie. We've to also check under what context it is used. – VijayaRagavan Aug 13 '13 at 09:27

Mari-Lou A · Answer 2 · 2013-08-13T22:40:12.667

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The term "marriage broker" does in fact exist. The modern day version of the matchmaker, this agent usually works for an online international marriage agency. A marriage broker helps arrange marriages between two strangers, who are usually living in two different countries, for a sum of money. Also called a "matcher".

edited Aug 13 '13 at 22:40

answered Aug 13 '13 at 21:28

Mari-Lou A

91,183

I like "matcher". Thanks @Mari-Lou A – Tom Aug 14 '13 at 14:06

score 0 · Answer 3 · answered Aug 13 '13 at 10:34

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Mutual friend / acquaintance / colleague / etc.: "A mutual friend put us in touch."

answered Aug 13 '13 at 10:34

OpenSorceress

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How would you call someone that connects two people together?

3 Answers3