Definition of referees:
(n) :
(sports) An umpire or judge; an official who makes sure the rules are followed during a game.
(n) :
A person who settles a dispute.
(n) :
(UK) A person who writes a letter of reference or provides a reference by phone call for someone. US English: reference.
(n) :
An expert who judges the manuscript of an article or book to decide if it should be published.
(v) :
To act as a referee.