compromise

[kom-pruh-mahyz]

noun

1. a settlement of differences by mutual concessions; an agreement reached by adjustment of conflicting or opposing claims, principles, etc., by reciprocal modification of demands.

2. the result of such a settlement.

3. something intermediate between different things.

   The split-level is a compromise between a ranch house and a multistoried house.

4. an endangering, especially of reputation; exposure to danger, suspicion, etc..

   a compromise of one's integrity.

verb (used with object)

compromised, compromising 

1. to settle by a compromise.

2. to expose or make vulnerable to danger, suspicion, scandal, etc.; jeopardize.

   a military oversight that compromised the nation's defenses.

3. Obsolete.

   1. to bind by bargain or agreement.

   2. to bring to terms.

verb (used without object)

compromised, compromising 

1. to make a compromise or compromises.

   The conflicting parties agreed to compromise.

2. to make a dishonorable or shameful concession.

   He is too honorable to compromise with his principles.

compromise

/ ˈkɒmprəˌmaɪz /

noun

1. settlement of a dispute by concessions on both or all sides

2. the terms of such a settlement

3. something midway between two or more different things

4. an exposure of one's good name, reputation, etc, to injury

verb

1. to settle (a dispute) by making concessions

2. (tr) to expose (a person or persons) to disrepute

3. (tr) to prejudice unfavourably; weaken

   his behaviour compromised his chances

4. obsolete,  (tr) to pledge mutually

Other Word Forms

• compromiser noun
• compromisingly adverb
• compromissary adjective
• noncompromising adjective
• procompromise adjective
• quasi-compromising adjective
• quasi-compromisingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of compromise¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Anglo-French compromisse, Middle French compromis, from Latin comprōmissum; equivalent to com- + promise

Word History and Origins

Origin of compromise¹

C15: from Old French compromis, from Latin comprōmissum mutual agreement to accept the decision of an arbiter, from comprōmittere, from prōmittere to promise

Example Sentences

His Toyota teammate Evans, compromised by little grip having to open the road on the loose surface, ended the session in eighth, 50.3s off the lead.

Read more on Barron's

"Companies would like to get the basics right -- and today those basics are getting compromised," Das said.

Read more on Barron's

Disclosure, he wrote, “could endanger the lives of witnesses and/or compromise the investigation.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Surely there’s compromise to be had between these extremes.

Read more on Salon

"The issue is is that we have two nations that are having a hard time coming to a compromise."

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• accommodation 
• accord 
• adjustment 
• arrangement 
• bargain 
• concession 
• deal 
• pact 
• settlement 
• understanding